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Human remains found in Massachusetts woods identified as missing man

By
Laura Haefeli
Laura Haefeli
Laura Haefeli joined WBZ-TV News in February 2023 as a multi-skilled journalist after three years at CBS Sacramento.
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Laura Haefeli

/ CBS Boston

SAUGUS - Human remains found in the woods in Saugus Sunday morning have been identified as missing man John Lawler of Haverhill, the Essex County District Attorney confirmed.

State Police said the decomposed skeletal remains were found in the woods on David Drive shortly after 10 a.m. by a resident walking their dog. The medical examiner and detectives could be seen working behind a house all morning and afternoon.

The remains were taken to the office of the medical examiner and identified as Lawler, the DA announced Tuesday. 

Lawler had been missing since the summer of 2023.

Investigators are still working to determine Lawler's cause of death.

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