Remains Found in Wooded Area Used as Encampment in Benton County

Nov 23

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after human remains were discovered on a wooded property in Minden Township known to be used as a homeless encampment.

Authorities were dispatched to the 1500 block of East St. Germain Street at approximately 9:15 p.m. on Nov. 19, 2025.

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A person on the property contacted the St. Cloud Police Department to report the discovery of what appeared to be a body. Officers responded to the scene and located the remains, but determined the site lay just outside city limits in Minden Township. Jurisdiction was subsequently transferred to the Benton County Sheriff’s Office.

According to a sheriff's office spokesperson, the wooded area where the discovery was made is regularly utilized as an encampment by homeless individuals.

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Deputies arrived to secure the perimeter and obtained a search warrant for the property. Benton County detectives launched a forensic investigation with assistance from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Crime Scene Team and BCA special agents. Investigators processed the scene to collect the remains and other evidence connected to the death.

Preliminary evidence recovered at the scene suggests the remains had been at the location for a substantial period of time. The body was transported to the Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office to be identified and determine the official cause of death.

Sheriff’s officials stated they do not believe there is an active threat to the public at this time.

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