Part of a human leg has been found on a major road in the Northern Territory, without police knowing whether its owner is alive or dead.
A passenger discovered the lower leg section on the Stuart Highway in Coolalinga, 30 km south of Darwin, around 9 a.m. Tuesday.
“We have attended the site of a forensic pathologist who has confirmed that the remains are the lower leg of a dark-skinned human being,” Detective Chief Sergeant Paul Morrissey told reporters.
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Police have not found any other body parts in the area despite extensive search efforts and do not know if the victim is alive or dead.
Sgt Morrissey said the person was likely to have suffered a serious injury.
Northern Territory Police are investigating the discovery of human remains next to the Stuart Highway Credit: AAP
“We believe it’s in the last 24 hours,” he said.
“There have been no reports of hospitals or clinics with such a serious injury.”
The crime scene was reported at the scene and the road linking Darwin with Alice Springs and Adelaide was closed in both directions.
The main investigators at the scene of the accident and the crime were also called to the scene. General and official Tactical Response Group functions helped search the area, concentrating on the grassy, tree-lined natural strip that separates the four-lane roadway.
Police have asked motorists with camera footage recorded on the stretch of highway between Monday afternoon and Tuesday morning to approach.