Workers at a north Harris County auto body shop made a grim discovery after a wrecked minivan was delivered for repairs.
Two adult men were found dead Saturday morning inside the vehicle at a business in the 13600 block of Reeveston Road in the Aldine area, according to KPRC 2.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office said deputies, EMS, crime scene investigators, and homicide detectives responded after a 911 caller reported finding two bodies inside the vehicle.
Officials had not released the men’s names, causes of death, or manners of death. The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences was expected to conduct autopsies.
The Minivan Had Been Bought at Auction
Investigators said the minivan had been purchased at an auction outside Harris County. Because it was wrecked and could not be driven, the new owner had it sent to the shop for repairs.
ABC13 reported that the vehicle arrived Friday afternoon by tow truck. Employees later noticed a foul odor and found the men inside.
KPRC 2 reported that the bodies were in the back of the minivan and were in the beginning stages of decomposition.
Detectives Want to Speak With the Tow Driver
Sgt. Michael Ritchie with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office told ABC13 that deputies believed the bodies had been decomposing for more than 24 hours before they were discovered.
Investigators said they wanted to speak with the tow truck driver who delivered the minivan. FOX 26 reported that detectives were working to determine where, when, and how the men may have entered the vehicle.
Authorities had not announced whether a suspect had been identified.
A Repair Drop-Off Became a Law Enforcement Scene
For any business or property owner taking in a damaged vehicle from another location, make sure to always inspect the vehicle before doing anything else. An auction delivery, tow-yard drop-off, or stored vehicle can bring problems that were never visible from the outside.
Workers who notice a strong odor, unknown occupants, evidence of tampering, blood, weapons, or other serious hazards should stop work, stay clear, and call authorities.