Remains of 3 Memphis children possibly decades old: Police report

Officials have launched an investigation after unidentified remains of three children, estimated to be between 3 and 7 years old, were found in Memphis, potentially present for several years.

During a press briefing on Wednesday, Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn "CJ" Davis revealed that a skull was discovered close to a forested area by a person walking their dog on March 8, who then informed the police.

Due to inadequate lighting conditions, a broader search was planned for the subsequent day.

This initiated more thorough searches over time. On March 10, a canine cadaver dog guided officials to a drainage pipe, which was later examined by camera; nevertheless, no additional remains were located during that search, as stated by authorities.

On April 1, investigators located another skull, this time inside the drainage system, Davis reported.

On the following day, search teams in the vicinity discovered an additional 14 bones, Davis mentioned.

Approximately 170 team members from different organizations, including the FBI and search and rescue units, were actively exploring the area on Wednesday, looking for more clues that might aid in identifying the deceased, Davis stated.

The police hoped to conclude the investigation at this particular crime scene by Wednesday evening.

The cause of death remains unclear, and authorities are striving to identify the individuals.

Officials believe there is no ongoing danger to the community. Davis clarified that the children do not match any missing persons reports in the Memphis region.

"Someone is aware of the missing children we have uncovered in this locale," Davis expressed.

"This situation is heart-wrenching, it's shocking, and at the moment, we have a multitude of resources assisting us to identify these young individuals and resolve this investigation."