FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2024
Human Remains Found in Ravine
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - On September 21, 2024 at 3:07PM, Charlottesville Police officers and detectives responded to the 2200 block of Banbury Street after a caller stated they found human remains behind their home. Officers observed skeletal remains in a ravine behind the property. There were no clear signs of trauma and no indication of a larger crime scene in the immediate area. With the assistance of the Charlottesville Fire Department, the remains were removed from the ravine. Due to the condition of the remains, no immediate identification could be made. The unidentified remains were transported to the office of Medical Examiner, and an examination was conducted on September 23, 2024. With the assistance of the office of the Medical Examiner, the decedent has been identified as 66-year-old Ben Franklin Staton. Mr. Staton’s next of kin has been notified.
No cause of death could be determined; however, no signs of trauma were discovered. The last known contact with Mr. Staton reportedly occurred on September 13, 2024. Mr. Staton is believed to have recently become unhoused.
Charlottesville investigators are continuing to investigate this incident; however, there is currently no evidence of foul play. If you have any information related to this incident or have recently had contact with Mr. Staton, please contact CrimeStoppers at 434-977-4000.
Media Contact
Afton Schneider
Director of Communications & Public Engagement
City of Charlottesville
434-996-0331
schneidera@charlottesville.gov