Investigators say the children were likely between 3 and 7 years old.
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis police are investigating the deaths of three young children after skeletal remains were found near Ridge Meadow Parkway in Hickory Hill, Police Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis said.
Davis said investigators found no matching Amber Alerts, missing child reports or local police records for children of the same ages. She said that gap points to adult involvement in what happened before the remains were left in the wooded area.
The case began March 8, when officers responded to the 3400 block of Ridge Meadow Parkway after a woman walking a dog reported what appeared to be a skull near the edge of the woods. Police confirmed the discovery but returned the next day because it was already dark. On March 10, cadaver dogs alerted officers to a drainage pipe near the scene.
Investigators later used camera equipment to inspect the pipe. No remains were found in that search, but police returned April 1 and accessed the drainage system from another location. They found what appeared to be a second skull. The next day, search teams recovered 14 more bones believed to be human remains.
Davis said the remains are believed to belong to three children between the ages of 3 and 7. Police have not released names because the children have not been identified. The cause and manner of death also remain unknown. Davis said only bone fragments were recovered, and experts believe the remains may have been in the area for several years.
The investigation has drawn help from the Shelby County Medical Examiner’s Office, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, FBI, Memphis Fire Department and search and rescue teams. Davis said about 170 people have worked on the case. “Somebody knows where these children have come from,” Davis said.
Police said there is no sign of an active threat to the public. Investigators are reviewing records beyond Memphis and comparing the remains with missing children cases from other states. Authorities in Michigan are expected to provide DNA and dental records tied to three boys who disappeared in 2010.
The case remains open as forensic testing continues. Police have not announced arrests or named any suspects.
Author note: Last updated April 29, 2026.