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PULASKI COUNTY, Mo. — Skeletal remains found near Dixon. Mo. on Saturday are likely those of a pre-teen, Pulaski County Sheriff Ron Long said in a news conference Monday morning.

A photographer discovered the remains on Saturday afternoon, according to television station KY3.

The remains were found in a rural, wooded area near Dixon.  Pulaski County Sheriff’s deputies searched the area for evidence on Sunday, but released no other information.

Law enforcement officials still don’t know the gender or identity of the individual.  Sheriff Long said it was likely the body had been decomposing for at least a year, but possibly fewer than five years.

Long said he has requested assistance from other agencies, and also said students from Saint Louis University will help with forensic pathology during the investigation.

The sheriff said he didn’t know how long the investigation would take, but would continue to keep the community updated on any and all developments.