Human Remains Found in Colorado County's Open Space

Neighbor says it's "scary to hear in our area"

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A hiker discovered human remains this week on undeveloped land near Crowfoot Valley Road and Pradera Parkway in Douglas County, Colorado. The Douglas County Sheriff's Office is investigating the discovery, and the county coroner will determine the cause and manner of death, as well as the identity of the remains. Nearby residents expressed shock and concern over the grisly find.

Why it matters

The discovery of human remains in a public open space has unsettled the local community, raising concerns about public safety and prompting residents to be more vigilant, especially when hiking alone. The investigation will aim to determine if foul play was involved and provide closure for any missing persons cases.

The details

Multiple agencies, including the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, Douglas County Search and Rescue, and El Paso County Search and Rescue's K-9 team, responded to the scene after the hiker's discovery. The remains were found on open space owned by Douglas County, near the Parker's Pradera neighborhood and the Crowsnest properties seeking annexation into Castle Pines.

  • The human remains were discovered by a hiker this week.

The players

Douglas County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency investigating the discovery of the human remains.

Douglas County Coroner's Office

The office that will determine the cause and manner of death, as well as the identity of the remains.

Shane Moody

A resident of the Pradera neighborhood, who expressed shock and concern over the discovery.

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What they’re saying

“I guess surreal is more of like the word to think about it.”

— Shane Moody, Pradera resident (CBS News Colorado)

“Just scary to hear in our area.”

— Shane Moody, Pradera resident (CBS News Colorado)

“I think, right now, it's kind of just a little bit more being kind of on alert. With family and kids here, it is something to kind of look out for, especially, if you're hiking by yourself and those type of things.”

— Shane Moody, Pradera resident (CBS News Colorado)

What’s next

The Douglas County Coroner's Office will determine the cause and manner of death, as well as the identity of the remains found.

The takeaway

The discovery of human remains in a public open space has unsettled the local community, raising concerns about public safety and prompting residents to be more vigilant, especially when hiking alone. The investigation will aim to provide answers and closure, while also addressing any potential issues of public safety in the area.