LOS ANGELES, CA – Authorities launched an investigation Wednesday after a severed human leg was discovered along a popular hiking trail in Palos Verdes Estates, a coastal city southwest of Los Angeles.
The partial leg was found on the Bluff Cove Trail near the 800 block of Paseo Del Mar, according to Capt. Aaron Belda of the Palos Verdes Estates Police Department. No additional body parts were located in the area, officials said.
The discovery follows the disappearance of two boaters whose vessel was recovered less than two miles away earlier this week. However, authorities emphasized that no direct connection between the incidents has been established.
“We’re not ruling anything out, but that has not been determined at this point,” Belda said in a statement. “No identification has been made, and we don’t have any supporting information to believe that they are connected.”
City officials echoed this assessment in a news release, reiterating that investigators are examining all possibilities. No further human remains have been found in the area so far, but a cadaver dog is expected to search the area thoroughly on Thursday afternoon.
Authorities have yet to confirm the origin of the remains or whether the leg belongs to a man or woman. Forensic testing and DNA analysis will likely be required to establish an identity and determine the cause of death.
The incident has prompted increased police presence and patrols along the Bluff Cove Trail as investigators work to secure the site and collect potential evidence.
Residents and hikers in the area have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious findings to authorities. Officials said they are continuing to investigate all leads and are treating the case as an active investigation.
Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact Palos Verdes Estates Police Department at 310-378-4211.
Cadaver dogs will continue searching surrounding areas while investigators review surveillance footage and interview possible witnesses. Further updates are expected as new details emerge.
