Body of Missing New Bedford Man Likely Found in Virginia

Updated 6:54 p.m. — Article has been updated to include a statement from Richmond police about the body and investigation.

RICHMOND, V.A. — The body of a person authorities believe is likely a missing New Bedford man has been found in Richmond, Virginia.

Lawrence Fernandes, 68, was reported missing last year after he boarded a North Carolina-bound bus on June 9.

A post from the Facebook page "Missing in Massachusetts" states that Fernandes was found deceased in Virginia, and New Bedford police confirmed that the remains found in Richmond are likely his.

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Lt. Scott Carola said on Tuesday the department received word from police in Richmond that they found human remains probably belonging to Fernandes.

He noted that there is no DNA evidence, dental records, or fingerprints conclusively proving that the body is his, but authorities believe it is due to the description and personal effects.

"There's a very good chance" that it's him, Carola said.

It is unclear if the cause of death is considered suspicious, although Carola said the location of the body outside will likely lead to further investigation.

Richmond police said the body was found last Wednesday on Ampthill Road, in a wooded area near the James River.

There is no evidence of foul play, according to Richmond police. The department is awaiting results from the medical examiner on cause of death.

Richmond police said they could not confirm the identity of the deceased.