WASHINGTON COUNTY, Ind. (WRTV) — Indiana State Police are asking for the public's help to identify a young boy who was found dead in a wooded area over the weekend.
"Somebody was taking care of him; he was in somebody's custody and care for his daily needs and for support," troopers said. "Somebody out there either knows and isn't saying something or just hasn't had the opportunity to see this in the media yet and they don't know that they need to call somebody."
Authorities said a mushroom hunter located the body Saturday night.
Investigators have not been able to determine the identity of the young boy. He's described as a young Black male between the ages of five and eight years old. The child was approximately four feet tall and had a slim build.
"Right now that's the No. 1 point of this investigation — to find out who this child is," police said. "He deserves to be heard."
Investigators believe the boy died within the last week.
The cause of the child's death will be determined by the coroner.
A national tip line has been established information in the case. People can call 1-888-437-6432 to provide authorities with tips.
This story was originally reported by Katie Cox on wrtv.com.
