Skeletal remains ID#039;d

Published 12:00 am Tuesday, July 8, 2003

The skeletal remains of an adult human found in a wooded area off of Prestwood Bridge Road in Andalusia Friday have been identified as those of missing 57-year-old Andalusia resident Vonnie Lee Prestwood.

Andalusia Police Chief Wilbur Williams Jr. said the remains were identified as Prestwood's late Monday afternoon.

"Forensics officers were able to determine (the identity of the skeleton) through x-rays from previous know injuries having been suffered by her," said Williams. "At this point a cause of death has yet to be determined and there were no signs of trauma, such as gunshot wounds or stab wounds."

He said an investigation continues into the possible cause of Prestwood's death.

The skeleton, which proved to be Prestwood's was discovered at about 12:30 p.m. on Friday, July 4 in response to a resident out walking who had reported finding a dead body.

Andalusia Police Department officers quickly responded to the scene and the results of the department's findings were turned over to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences for a post mortem examination to determine a possible cause of death and the identity of the remains.

Prestwood was first discovered missing on Monday, June 2, and at the time Andalusia Police Department Lt. Jerry Parker said there were no signs of foul play.

"Everything was in order at her house," said Parker on June 5.

Prestwood, who was on medication for depression and a chemical imbalance, was last seen in June walking near Wal-Mart.