Stanislaus County Sheriff’s detectives are investigating a possible double homicide after finding two bodies inside a charred vehicle located on the outskirts of Hughson.
The remains were burned beyond recognition and investigators are awaiting DNA results to confirm identification, said sheriff spokesman Sgt. Anthony Bejaran.
The remains were found inside a vehicle that was set on fire and left near E. Hatch and Charles roads in Hughson.
The grisly discovery was made early Sunday morning.
Bejaran said investigators were looking into several possible scenarios, including that the deaths could be gang-related and connected to a homicide that occurred Aug. 21 in Hughson.
Demetrius Martinez, 18, of Modesto was stabbed to death Aug. 21 at a house party in Hughson.
Investigators believe the stabbing was gang-related. The case has been sent to the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office, though no arrests have been made.
Anyone with information about the death of the two individuals can contact Detective Jon McQueary at 525-7099. Callers can also leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at 521-4636. Tipsters can also e-mail tips at http://www.modestopolice.com/CrimeStoppers, or text them to CRIMES (274637) by typing "Tip704" plus the message and be eligible for a cash reward.
To contact Sabra Stafford, e-mail sstafford@turlockjournal.com or call 634-9141 ext. 2002.