Three bones found during a mysterious and intensive search of a Massachusetts property belonging to a man who died last month are believed to be those of an animal, according to the Essex district attorney's office.
Federal and state authorities have been searching the Georgetown property on Chestnut Street since Friday, and neighbors say they're still in the dark about the purpose of the search. The previous homeowner, Peter Haskell, died last month at the age of 85 and had lived alone.
After his death, local police put up "no trespassing" signs around his house on Chestnut Street. They were removed Friday when, according to neighbors, police arrived early in the morning with K-9 dogs to pick up scents in the backyard.
While the majority of Friday's search focused on the home's backyard, Monday's search focused on digging up the basement's flooring, the Essex DA's office confirmed. Investigators could be seen going in and out of the home to a tarp set up in front of the home on Tuesday.
Authorities have not yet revealed specifics of what they are looking for; however, they show no signs of stopping the search.
Police say there is no danger to the public. No further details have been released.
According to his obituary, Haskell coached youth sports for decades. His sister says he took the property over from their parents in the early 90s, but said she hadn't seen him in close to 20 years.
