Beach Walk Leads California Woman to Human Jawbone in the Sand

A San Clemente, California resident made a disturbing discovery during a walk on Linda Lane Beach on Wednesday, when she spotted something sticking out of the sand. Catherine Kinison said she first thought it might be a sea animal remain, but quickly realized it was human: the lower part of a jawbone with four teeth still attached.

Kinison told the California Post, “I thought to myself, ‘Don’t touch it and go get someone.’” She alerted local lifeguards, who then called the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. The bone was sent to the coroner’s office, which is working with the Native American Heritage Commission.

Authorities said they believe the remains are of Native American heritage and do not suspect any criminal activity or foul play. Sergeant Lizbeth Gwisdala said, “They believe it is Native American heritage.”

Kinison said recent high tides, along with sand replacement work in the area, likely exposed the jawbone. The site was once home to the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation.