Human remains found on the shores of Leech Lake in Cass County

The Cass County Sheriff’s office reports that human remains were found in the area of Gould Township on the shores of Leech Lake on August 31. After being notified, deputies found the skeletal remains of at least three individuals. The remains are believed to be several hundred years old according to authorities.

The Leech Lake Heritage Sites program was called in and the site was secured.

“Steps were taken that evening to secure the remains, and the Minnesota Indian Affairs Council was also contacted and is assisting with the process,” explained Cass County Sheriff Bryan Welk.  “This incident remains under investigation and the specific location is not being disclosed at this time, though it is located within a known cultural site.”

Welk said he wanted to remined the public of the importance of contacting authorities and not disturbing the area when remains like this are discovered.

“In doing so, this ensures vital evidence is preserved, along with being respectful of those who were here before us,” he said.

The Cass County Sheriff’s Office, the Leech Lake Tribal Police Department, and the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe are working to preserve the remains and restore them to their original state in “a timely, and culturally appropriate manner.”