Local News
Sevierville Homeowner Shaelyn Baggett Finds Human Teeth Emerging From Yard, Prompting Multi-Agency Investigation
SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. — A Sevierville resident has made a disturbing and highly unusual discovery on her own property, prompting an active investigation by multiple authorities after human teeth were found emerging from the ground.
Homeowner Shaelyn Baggett said the initial discovery occurred earlier this week when she noticed what appeared to be teeth visible in her yard.
She later found an additional tooth, bringing the total number recovered to eight.
Law enforcement has since become involved, and officials have confirmed that the remains are human.
According to Baggett, the discovery was made when she looked down and saw what appeared to be teeth protruding from the soil.
“By uncovered, I mean I looked down and there they were — literally sprouting from the earth,” she said.
The finding prompted an immediate response from authorities.
The Sevier County Sheriff’s Office, along with forensic investigators, the medical examiner, a dental professional, and anthropologists, are now working collaboratively to determine the origin and age of the teeth.
Officials have stated that while the teeth are confirmed to be human, they appear to be old, though investigators have not yet determined their exact age or how long they may have been buried.
No conclusions have been drawn regarding whether the discovery is connected to criminal activity, historical remains, or another explanation.
Baggett said she has been informed that excavation work is expected, which may include digging into portions of her yard and driveway as part of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities are continuing to examine the surrounding area for additional remains or evidence that could clarify how the teeth came to be located on the property.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials have not released further details at this time.
Baggett has said she plans to continue sharing updates publicly as more information becomes available.
Volusia County, Fla. — A 16-year-old boy has died after being found unresponsive in the Indian River during a weekend camping and fishing trip, according to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities identified the teen as Hunter McKelvin of Paisley. Deputies said he was discovered face-down in the water Saturday morning near a small island east of Maynard May Park in Edgewater.
Members of the group located the teen and immediately began CPR before transporting him by boat to Maynard May Park.
Upon arrival, officers with the Edgewater Police Department and other emergency responders took over life-saving efforts.
McKelvin was then transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased later that morning.
Investigators reported that no visible injuries were observed, and there were no immediate signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances during the initial investigation.
An autopsy has been scheduled as authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.