CHP: Body of woman found adjacent to Highway 74, possible hit-and-run death

HOMELAND (CNS) - A dead woman was found adjacent to Highway 74 in Homeland today, prompting an investigation into whether she was the possible victim of a hit-and-run or died from other causes.

The pedestrian, whose identity was not immediately released, was located by a passerby shortly after 9 a.m. Wednesday on the southbound side of the highway, between Joppe and Steinhoff avenues, according to the California Highway Patrol.

Officer Jesus Garcia told City News Service the witness called 911 after finding the victim, and initially Riverside County Sheriff's Department personnel were sent to investigate. However, they soon turned the matter over to the CHP due to the close proximity of the victim to Highway 74.

``Based on initial information, it appears the body has been there for a few days,'' Garcia said.

He said investigators won't have a complete picture of what may have happened until pathologists have had an opportunity to examine the remains.

As of 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, CHP officers and county Coroner's Office deputies remained at the scene.

No lane closures were required as part of the investigation.

Anyone with information about the case was asked to contact the CHP Temecula office at 951-466-4300.