Body found in wooded area near Vicksburg Hotel

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — A body was found Tuesday morning in a wooded area commonly used as a homeless encampment near a Vicksburg-area hotel, authorities said.

According to Vicksburg Police Chief Penny Jones, the body was discovered around 8 a.m. by a homeless individual, who alerted a nearby citizen. The citizen then contacted 911.

Officers responding to the scene found the body of an unidentified white female inside a tent. She appeared to have been deceased for some time, Jones said. No signs of foul play were evident.

The remains have been transferred to a local funeral home. The case is pending further information from medical authorities.

Jones said the wooded area is frequently occupied by members of the homeless community. She encouraged anyone experiencing homelessness — or those concerned about individuals in need — to reach out to local shelters and resources, including United Way, River City Rescue Mission and the Salvation Army.

“Our thoughts are with those affected,” Jones said.