Monterey County Sheriff’s Coroner Office Investigating Human Remains Found in Cachagua Area of Carmel Valley 

February 5, 2026 – Monterey County Sheriff’s Office officials report that they are investigating the discovery of human remains found in an unincorporated area of Monterey County.

On January 29th, 2026, at about 6:45 P.M., sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to a rural area of Cachagua Road in Carmel Valley after people walking in the area found what appeared to be a human skull and other remains. Deputies responded and confirmed the discovery. The scene was secured and turned over to the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Coroner Division.

Over the course of several days, the scene was processed, and additional human remains were located and collected. A forensic examination will be conducted to assist in identifying the remains. This process will include DNA analysis and comparison with missing and unidentified persons records through the California Department of Justice.

Related: Land Surveyor Working Near Viejo Road Discovered Human Remains in Monterey County

The discovery of these human remains follows other human remains that were discovered on December 29th, 2025, in the area of Viejo Road. During that incident, a land surveyor reported finding a human skull. Additional remains were located and collected by the Monterey County Coroner’s Office. Identification of those remains are still pending DNA analysis.

These are ongoing investigations, and no further details are available at this time.

Source: Monterey County Sheriff’s Office