MARIES COUNTY — Human remains pulled from the Gasconade River on July 5 are thought to be a missing Crocker man, although they have not yet been positively identified according to Maries County Sheriff Chris Heitman.

“Some people floating and fishing over the weekend discovered it,” Heitman said. “They were partially buried by the river current. I think the remains floated downriver.”

Members of the Maries County Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of the Osage County Sheriff’s Water Division recovered the remains of what is presumed to be a male in his 50s at Gaines Ford Spring near the Phelps County line.

“The remains were there less than a year,” Heitman said. “We were able to get some distinguishing characteristics off the remains, which were mainly skeletal with some clothing.”

Heitman said they did not know to be looking for any missing person in that area, but he believes they have a good start at identifying him.

“I can’t positively identify him yet, but a forensic examination is taking place on the remains to determine if foul play is involved. It is not something I am ruling out at this time,” Heitman said. “I will keep the public informed the best I can.”

While the sheriff said they are hoping to be able to identify the remains through dental and medical records, he doesn’t believe the public is in any danger.

“We have already been in contact with a family we suspect may be his,” Heitman said. “They reported him missing.”