Skeletal human remains were discovered during two separate searches in a remote area of Little Mountain, located approximately 15 miles northwest of Vernal, according to the Uintah County Sheriff's Office. The discoveries occurred during organized efforts to follow up on a missing person case in the area.
Initial Discovery in Little Mountain
The first discovery occurred on Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026, when law enforcement and assisting agencies located skeletal human remains during an organized search. As reported by Basin Now and Gephardt Daily, search crews were conducting the search in a remote section of the Little Mountain area to follow up on an existing missing person case.
Second Search Uncovers Linked Remains
A second search conducted on Oct. 7, 2026, in the same remote location uncovered additional skeletal remains. The Uintah County Sheriff's Office stated that the remains found during this second search are believed to be linked to the remains discovered on Sept. 27. In addition to the skeletal remains, investigators also recovered other items during the Oct. 7 search that are believed to be connected to the remains.
Medical Examiner to Conduct Examination
The Uintah County Sheriff's Office confirmed in a press release that the recovered remains will be sent to the Utah Office of the Medical Examiner for examination. The details regarding the identity of the remains or the cause of death have not been released.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains active and ongoing, according to both Basin Now and Gephardt Daily. The Uintah County Sheriff's Office indicated that more information will be released as it becomes available.
