Human remains found in an unmarked shallow grave earlier this month on Highway 96 some five miles east of Wetmore just across the Pueblo County line have been identified as Brian Swartz, 30, of Pueblo.

According to Custer County sheriff Fred Jobe, family members reported Schwartz missing on Aug. 22. He was last seen on Aug. 1. 

Swartz’s body was found on Saturday, Sept. 5, by a retired Colorado Division of Wildlife officer who was hunting in a pasture just off Highway 96 near mile marker 30.

Authorities identified the body through fingerprints.

The cause of death has not been determined, said Jobe, however, the case is being investigated as a murder. “It may be a drug deal gone bad,” said Jobe.

Jobe said Swartz was last seen on Aug. 1 when he went to his father’s house with four other unidentified males. The five later left that home with a safe. At the time, said Jobe, Swartz appeared to be crying and family members have reported guns may have been in the safe. 

– Nora Drenner