Police in Cleveland are seeking public assistance after two young Black girls were found dead inside separate suitcases buried in shallow graves Monday evening.
According to the Cleveland Division of Police, the victims are believed to be between the ages of 8 and 14.
Authorities said there are currently no missing persons reports in the city matching the identities of the girls.
The discovery was made near East 162nd Street and Midland Avenue, in a field close to Ginn Academy, after a man walking his dog noticed a partially buried suitcase near a fence by a playground.
The man reportedly unzipped the suitcase, saw what appeared to be a human head, and immediately contacted police.
Officers responding to the scene located a shallow grave containing the first suitcase with a deceased individual inside.
A search of the surrounding area led to the discovery of a second shallow grave and another suitcase containing a second victim.
Cleveland Police Chief Dorothy Todd described the case as a “terrible, horrific situation” during a news conference.
“This is a traumatic event for our officers and for the community,” Todd said. “This is just such a tragic incident, but we are trying to develop any leads we can. That’s why we are also asking for the community’s help.”
Authorities have not yet identified the girls or determined their causes of death. Police also said it remains unclear how long the bodies had been buried.
The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office has taken custody of the bodies for autopsies. Officials confirmed that the victims had not been dismembered.
Police stated there is no immediate indication of a broader threat to public safety but emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing.
The Cleveland Police Homicide Unit has established a 24-hour tip line and is urging anyone with information to come forward.
