Overview
- An exterminator alerted authorities after smelling a foul odor and discovered human remains inside the ash dump of P.S./I.S. 113 in Glendale, Queens, prompting a 911 call just before 9 a.m. on Tuesday.
- The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner removed the remains and is processing them to establish identity and cause of death.
- NYPD detectives have treated the scene as a criminal investigation and searched the rooftop and building for evidence.
- Investigators are examining contractor rosters and recent building permits for wiring and heating work to see whether a construction worker or someone connected to renovations is involved.
- The Department of Education said the school was closed for summer, no students were on site, supports are being offered to the school community, and police asked the public to provide tips to help identify the deceased.