Tulsa Police: Bones Found In Storm Drains Likely Homeless Man

Tulsa Police searching storm drains in South Tulsa found human remains including leg and foot bones Wednesday. Homicide Sergeant Dave Walker told News On 6 they don't have any reason to suspect foul play.

Police say they started searching because Creek Lighthorse Police found a human skull in late June on River Spirit Casino property. Authorities are searching upstream of that area - around 81st and Lewis. 

Drivers are advised to avoid the area as traffic is diverted during the investigation.

Walker said they are opening storm drains and found the leg, arm and hand bones in one of the first areas they searched. Some smaller foot bones were also found on City of Tulsa property.

Police believe the bones belong to a homeless person who was living in the storm drains and died. The body was washed downstream in June rains, according to TPD.

Walker said the medical examiner believes the remains - those of a male in his 30s to 50s - have been in the drains for about 6 months.  

"She will take those and put them together like a puzzle," Walker said of the Tulsa medical examiner. He hopes they find some kind of clothing and ID as the search continues.

Walker said there's clear evidence homeless people are living in the drain. He said it's divided into handmade "rooms" with personal items in containers and even a tapestry on the wall.