Historical Native American Remains Found at UC Berkeley

University working with Native American Heritage Commission on next steps

Apr. 17, 2026 at 4:53am

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph depicting a hazy, dreamlike scene of an archaeological dig site, with soft pools of warm, earthy color and light.The discovery of historical Native American remains at UC Berkeley prompts a renewed call for greater collaboration between academic institutions and indigenous communities.San Jose Today

Skeletal remains discovered at a UC Berkeley construction site have been determined to be historical Native American remains, not connected to any crime. The university is coordinating with the California Native American Heritage Commission to ensure respectful and appropriate next steps.

Why it matters

The discovery of historical Native American remains on university property raises important questions about the treatment and repatriation of indigenous cultural heritage, as well as the ongoing need for greater collaboration between academic institutions and Native American communities.

The details

On Wednesday, skeletal remains were found at a construction site on UC Berkeley property. The Alameda County Coroner's Office determined these remains were likely historical Native American remains and not connected to any crime. UC Berkeley's Governmental and Community Relations office is now coordinating with the California Native American Heritage Commission to follow the procedures of the Most Likely Descendant to determine the appropriate next steps.

  • The remains were discovered on Wednesday, April 17, 2026.

The players

UC Berkeley

The University of California, Berkeley is a public research university located in Berkeley, California.

California Native American Heritage Commission

A state agency that identifies and catalogs places of special religious or social significance to Native Americans, and assists Native Americans in obtaining access to, or custody of, cultural resources on public lands.

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What’s next

UC Berkeley will follow the procedures of the Most Likely Descendant as designated by the Native American Heritage Commission to ensure respectful and appropriate next steps for the historical Native American remains.

The takeaway

This discovery highlights the ongoing need for greater collaboration between academic institutions and Native American communities to ensure the proper treatment and repatriation of indigenous cultural heritage found on university properties.