Human remains found near Sweetwater Gap still unidentified

PINEDALE (WNE) — Detectives are still investigating to confirm the positive identity of a man whose scattered skeletal remains were found at a remote campsite near the Sweetwater Gap Guard Station. 

On Sept. 6, Sublette County Sheriff’s Office deputies and detectives responded to hunters discovering human remains, according to Lt. Travis Bingham.

“(They) located disarticulated human skeletal remains scattered along with a tent and personal items,” he said in a statement last week. “Preliminary findings suggest the remains have been in the area for approximately five years and belong to an adult male.” 

Although an ID card was found at the scene, Bingham said Wednesday that the name on the card does not match any reported missing persons. Detectives have been trying to locate next of kin to positively confirm the man’s identity. 

“Detectives are still tracking down any next of kin and trying to confirm the identity 100 percent before we share who it is,” he said. “We wouldn’t want to not be the person with the ID and be wrong.” 

The cause of death is still not determined, although “foul play does not seem to be a factor,” according to Bingham. 

Because of the disarticulated state of the bones, an autopsy “doesn’t really work,” he said. “It’s more of an anthropology exam.” 

Bingham said anyone who has visited the Sweetwater Gap area in recent years and may have come across bones, camping equipment or other personal items is encouraged to contact Detective Hana Patterson at  hpatterson@ sublettecountywy.gov or Detective Sgt. Travis Lanning tlanning@sublettecountywy.gov.

This story was published on Sept. 25, 2025.