Dead Teen Found In Dumpster Behind Arizona High School

Glendale, Ariz. Police are investigating after the corpse of a student was discovered on the Independence High School campus in Glendale.

Sgt. Randy Stewart stated that a sanitation worker noticed what he believed to be a Halloween decoration on the ground beside a dumpster shortly after 6:30 a.m. on Nov. 15. As he approached, the worker noticed blood, recognized it was a body, and immediately contacted 911.

Officers arrived on the site and recognized the victim as a seventeen-year-old teenager who had lately fled his family.

“Through the investigation what we’ve kind of learned so far, the 17-year-old male was listed as a runaway last night and his parents were not sure where he was at,” Sgt. Stewart said. “There are some indicators that he was up on top of the press box and the injuries are consistent with a fall from that area. We don’t know at this time if it was accidental or on purpose.”

The victim was not an Independence High School student. His identity was not released.

“There was no note or anything,” Sgt. Stewart said. “It looks like he was upset about something having to do with a cellphone and ended up leaving the home.”

At this point, there is no indication of foul play.

The investigation is ongoing.

Principal Rob Ambrose sent a letter to parents regarding the incident:

“Dear Parents/Guardians:

As part of our ongoing communications plan, I am writing to let you know that the Glendale Police Department were on campus this morning investigating an incident that occurred sometime over the weekend.

Although we were unable to release any further details earlier of the situation due to the ongoing investigation, we understand that Glendale PD will be making a statement later today. It is important to note, however, that no students or staff were in any danger due to the police matter. Furthermore, the situation did not involve anyone from Independence High School. Schools was able to continue on schedule.

We appreciate your ongoing support and understanding. Please contact me with any concerns you may have.”

⁦@GlendaleAZPD⁩ investigating body found near dumpster on campus of Independence High School 75th Ave & Maryland Authorities giving information to media now #fox10phoenix pic.twitter.com/ouvnIIEEo5

— Rick Davis (@rdavisfox10) November 15, 2021