Police: Hikers Find Body In Coconut Creek Park
COCONUT CREEK (CBS4) - A couple of hikers at Tradewinds Park in Coconut Creek made a gruesome discovery Thursday afternoon -- they found a decomposing body.
Police believe it is a woman's body and they are awaiting more information from the Broward County Medical Examiner. We're told the determination on who the person is could come as early as Friday.
The body was discovered in a heavily wooded area full of mangroves and nature trails. Investigators say the body has likely been in the woods for several months.
"It's mostly skeletal remains at this point," said Coconut Creek Police Chief Michael Mann.
As police officers set up crime scene tape people biked and jogged nearby. They watched as the Broward County Medical Examiner removed the body. The news of a body found stood in contrast to the people enjoying a leisurely evening in the picturesque park.
"I just think that's shocking," said jogger Devri Gonzalez. "I wouldn't think that would happen in a park like this."
Jason Kryshka, who was playing frisbee golf with friends, agreed.
"To know it's been out here for so long, it's kind of freaky," Kryshka said.
Coral Springs Police also arrived on scene. They are investigating to see if the body is Maria Claudia Murphy. Murphy disappeared in March after walking away from her car.
Coral Springs Police say Murphy was last seen on surveillance camera walking in an area not far from Tradewinds Park. Coconut Creek Police would only say that the investigation is ongoing.
"We're looking into all those possibilities at this time," Mann said.
CBS 4 News contacted a member of Murphy's family. They said the discovery brings up a lot of difficult emotions for them and they are anxious for answers.
