Body Found in Burned-Out Car

SMITH COUNTY — Smith County officials say a body has been found in a burned-out car, and the investigation is ongoing. Officials say shortly after 6:00 yesterday morning, firemen were called to a burning vehicle on County Road 3101 near the Jackson Heights area. Firemen found a four-door passenger car, and the fire had almost burned out. Smith County Sheriff’s deputies, who also responded to the scene, closely inspected the vehicle and found the remains of a person. It could not be determined whether the person was male or female.

The Sheriff’s Office requested the assistance of the State Fire Marshal’s Office and its accelerant-detecting K-9. According to officials, Smith County Sheriff Larry Smith dispatched a forensic team, detectives, and other Sheriff’s Office personnel to secure the location and conduct a thorough investigation. Authorities say DNA and other information collected from the remains and the scene will be used to help make an identification of the person. The inquest was held by Justice of the Peace 4 Mitch Shamburger, who ordered the body be taken to The Southwestern Institute of Forensic Science in Dallas for an autopsy. Officials say more information will be released as it becomes available.