Archaeologists, investigators ask for public’s help; $3,000 reward offered for information on stolen human remains from ancient burial site

The Utah School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration (TLA) is seeking the public’s as­sistance in identifying the individual or individuals responsible for removing a human skull from a pro­tected ancient burial site in southern Utah.

Kanab, UT

In January 2025, inves­tigators from the Attorney General’s Office assigned to the Trust Lands Admin­istration became aware of the incident after viewing social media, prompting a search of a site near Kanab.

During the extensive investigation, state ar­chaeologists visited the location and confirmed that a human skull had been removed.

 “The theft of human re­mains from a burial site is a crime and a violation of hu­man dignity,” said Michelle McConkie, executive direc­tor of the TLA. “This act not only breaks the law - it is disrespectful to those who lived here long before us and the scientific integrity of Utah’s archaeological record.”

The Trust Lands Admin­istration is offering a $3,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible.

Anyone with information is urged to contact investigators with the Utah At­torney General’s Office at 801-538-5113 or by email­ing aginvestcomplaints@agutah.gov. Individuals with tips may remain anonymous.