Human remains were discovered in the chimney of a public school in Queens, New York, on Tuesday morning as authorities investigated a foul odor. The discovery was made at P.S./I.S. 113 Anthony J. Pranzo shortly before 9 a.m., according to police.
The city's medical examiner has removed the remains and is working to identify the individual and determine the cause of death. It remains unclear how long the remains had been in the chimney or how they arrived there.
No students or staff were present in the building at the time of the discovery, as the school year had concluded for the summer on Friday. The building was also closed for construction, officials said.
Contractors had been working at the school in recent days, and police are reportedly attempting to confirm whether all workers are accounted for. City Buildings Department records indicate permits were obtained for work including wiring and hot water heating.
The City Department of Education stated that the discovery was "deeply upsetting and concerning."