Bodies of 2 Young Girls Found in Suitcases in Cleveland Neighborhood

Police confirm the grim discovery in the city's South Collinwood area

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The bodies of two young girls were found in suitcases in a field in Cleveland's South Collinwood neighborhood on Monday evening. Police were called to the scene after a man walking his dog discovered the partially buried suitcases. Authorities have not yet identified the victims, who are believed to be between 8-14 years old.

Why it matters

This tragic discovery has shaken the local community and raised urgent questions about the safety of children in the area. The investigation is still in its early stages, and police are working with state and federal partners to determine the identities of the victims and the circumstances surrounding their deaths.

The details

According to Cleveland Police Chief Dorothy Todd, officers responded to a call just after 6 p.m. on Monday and found the first body in a suitcase that was partially buried in a shallow grave. A second body was then discovered nearby, also in a suitcase. The victims are believed to have been there for some time. Authorities have not yet identified the girls or determined the cause of death.

  • On March 4, 2026, police were called to the scene around 6 p.m.

The players

Dorothy Todd

Cleveland Police Chief who confirmed the discovery of the bodies.

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What they’re saying

“It is traumatic for everyone. It is traumatic for those who live in the area to know that this was right there at their door step.”

— Dorothy Todd, Cleveland Police Chief (WOIO)

What’s next

Detectives are continuing to investigate the scene and work with state and federal partners to identify the victims and determine the cause of death. The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner will conduct further examination of the bodies.

The takeaway

This horrific discovery has shaken the South Collinwood community and raised urgent concerns about child safety in the area. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are appealing to the public for any information that could help identify the victims and shed light on this tragic case.