Police release identity of victim whose remains were found on South Mountain trail

Human skull discovered on South Mountain, homicide investigation continues

PHOENIX - Months after police released a composite sketch of a person whose remains were found on South Mountain, we now know the person's identity.

According to a statement released by Phoenix Police on Aug. 4, the person is identified as 31-year-old Jerole Tsinnijinnie.

"This case remains an ongoing investigation," wrote Phoenix Police Sergeant Rob Scherer.

Police were called to an area near the Holbert Trailhead on Jan. 14, 2023, after a hiker discovered a skull that "showed what appeared to be trauma." A set of car keys and the victim's clothing – a dark blue sweatshirt, jeans, a plaid dress shirt, and Converse shoes – were also found.

Police said the case was officially being considered a homicide. Parts of South Mountain were closed off for investigators to collect any remaining evidence. More remains were found during the search. It's not known if those remains and the skull belonged to the same person.

On Feb. 10, police released a composite sketch that they say may resemble the victim.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Phoenix PD or Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS.

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Police released a composite sketch in hopes of identifying a victim whose remains were found on South Mountain in January. (Phoenix Police Department)