Overview
- A group of teenagers spotted what appeared to be a human leg in Phoenix Pond near the Maritime Veterans Memorial Bridge around 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, prompting a police response.
- Authorities identified the remains as Peter Degan, 69, using fingerprint evidence after recovering multiple body parts from the water.
- Prosecutors said the parts showed “clean cut” dismemberment consistent with a sharp instrument, and investigators suspect foul play.
- Degan was last seen on Feb. 27 and had been living in a prerelease residence in Rockland following a cocaine-trafficking conviction and time served at MCI-Shirley.
- State Police divers and detectives continue searching the pond for additional remains and evidence, and officials are urging anyone with information about Degan or activity near the bridge to contact authorities.