Woman Found Dead Near Highway 74 In Riverside County: CHP

HOMELAND, CA — Authorities are investigating the circumstances behind the death of a woman whose body was found near Highway 74 Wednesday morning in Homeland, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The pedestrian, whose identity was not immediately released, was discovered by a motorist passing by just after 9 a.m. on the southbound side of the highway, between Joppe and Steinhoff avenues, according to the CHP.

CHP Officer Jesus Garcia said the witness called 911 after finding the victim, and initially authorities with Riverside County Sheriff's Department were sent to investigate. However, they soon turned the matter over to the CHP due to the close proximity of the victim to Highway 74.

"Based on initial information, it appears the body has been there for a few days," Garcia said.

He said investigators will know more about what happened to the woman after pathologists have examined the remains.

As of 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, CHP officers and county Coroner's Office deputies remained at the scene.

No lane closures were reported.

Anyone with information about the case was asked to contact CHP's Temecula office at 951-466-4300.

City News Service contributed to this report.