Human Remains Search Expands Along Sulphur Fork Creek After Skull Discovery
UPDATED… Wix family says they found more remains at the creek.
SPRINGFIELD, TENNESSEE: (Smokey Barn News) – After yesterday’s discovery of a human skull near the Springfield Greenway by Sulphur Fork Creek, search teams returned to the area today near the Robertson County Fairgrounds and searched the creek in force, moving slowly through the water with poles and probes.
Based on information gathered by Smokey Barn News from multiple sources, additional human remains were located today in the same general area. Officials have not issued a public statement yet, and no new identifications have been released.
Teams in protective gear swept the creek channel and banks for several hours. Law enforcement has returned to this stretch of Sulphur Fork Creek multiple times since a human leg was found there on July 4. That leg was later identified as sixty-eight-year-old Joseph Frank Benton Senior of Springfield. Agencies leading the effort include the Robertson County Sheriff’s Office and the Nineteenth Judicial District Attorney’s Office.
Recent rain and changing water levels in the creek may have played a role in the visibility of the remains. In moving water, items can shift as water levels rise and fall. As remains decompose, buoyancy and position can also change over time. These factors together can hide evidence for a period and later uncover it, which may explain the timing of recent discoveries.
UPDATE:
The Wix family told Smokey Barn News that they discovered additional human remains today (Sunday) near the Springfield Greenway by Sulphur Fork Creek and called 911, which brought law enforcement back to the scene for what is now the third time law enforcement has been called to the scene. Officials have not released details. Rumors are circulating that additional remains were located by law enforcement; however, Smokey Barn News has not independently confirmed that.
Statement from the Wix family:
“Earlier today, our family discovered additional human remains at the Springfield Greenway near Sulphur Fork Creek. Out of respect for the ongoing investigation, we won’t be sharing more about what was found and will leave that to investigators.
A young boy found a human skull… something no child should ever have to experience. We are pleading with the Robertson County Sheriff’s Office to address the community regarding these recent discoveries and our ongoing case. The remains are likely that of Joseph Benton, one of the last individuals known to see Jennifer and Adrianna before their disappearance.” Wix family
Investigators have not released details on the cause or manner of death. The area remains an active search and recovery scene, and the investigation is ongoing. As soon as authorities are prepared to release more information, we will bring it to you.
