JACKSON, Tenn. (AP) -- Authorities in Tennessee confirm that a human skull brought by a dog to its owner is that of a woman who disappeared almost a year ago.
Gibson County Sheriff Paul Thomas said Tuesday that the skull found in a wooded area this week is that of 22-year-old Sarah Michelle Phillips, who was last seen in January.
The sheriff's statement says the medical examiner's office in Memphis used dental records to identify the remains. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation also is on the case.
Milan Police Chief Bobby Sellers says authorities are still trying to determine what happened. He told the Jackson Sun that at the time Phipps was reported missing, foul play and criminal activity weren't suspected. Investigators haven't said whether that has changed.