The body of a small child found off a highway in Massachusetts appears to be that of Jeremiah Oliver, a Fitchburg boy who went missing last year.
Worcester County District Attorney Joe Early held a press conference to confirm that the body was found “wrapped in a blanket-type object” in a “suitcase, duffle bag-type material” around 9 a.m., reports WBZ-TV. Early declined to say what lead officials to the body, which was 40 miles from the road, so a person would not be able to see it while driving.
Early added that the body is “consistent in height and weight with Jeremiah Oliver.” He also said that it looks like a homicide, as it looks like the body was “somewhat concealed from the elements.”
According to WCVB-TV, Oliver was last seen by his relatives in September. However, he was not reported missing until December. His mother, Elsa Oliver, 28, has been charged with kidnapping, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and reckless endangerment. Alberto Sierra, her boyfriend, has also been charged.
The state Department of Children and families was criticized for its handling of the case and three workers were fired, while a fourth was disciplined.