A school custodian in Michigan was found dismembered on the same day he was reported missing, with several body parts scattered along the Saginaw River in Bay City; here's everything we know so far.
Timeline of killing
The family of the missing custodian had reported him missing on September 18, only hours before his dismembered body was discovered by a 16-year-old girl near a boat launch in Bay City, according to the Detroit Free Press.
The victim's severed foot was found in the Saginaw River, while his head and torso were found at a separate location.
John Donaldson, the 16-year-old's grandfather, said he initially thought the severed foot was a prank and that it appeared to look as though it belonged to a doll, per the outlet.
After realizing it was a human foot, Donaldson called 911, and while waiting for law enforcement to arrive, the teenager allegedly spotted a hand nearby, the local Michigan newspaper reported.
The Victim, Justin Stilwell
The following day, authorities identified the victim as 41-year-old Justie Stilwell. Stillwel's family located his abandoned car at a park, said officials from Bay City Public Safety.
The victim's family members grew concerned when he hadn't shown up for work for days.
Justin Stilwell, 41, of Bay City, Michigan, was working as a custodian at T.L. Handy Middle School at the time of his death.
T.L. Handy Middle School issued a statement following Stilwel's identification, according to WSGW.
"Justie was a valued member of our Handy family, and we know that this loss will be felt deeply by many," it read.
"Our thoughts are with Justie's family and all those affected by this loss."
The Suspect, Robert Dale Tweedly Jr.
Robert Dale Tweedly Jr., 40, was arrested and charged with one count of open murder and disinterment and mutilation of a body in the death of Justie Stilwell, according to multiple reports.
A search of Tweedly's home uncovered evidence that links Tweedly to the killing, authorities alleged.
Investigators revealed information was obtained on the whereabouts of Stilwell's head and torso that had reportedly been dumped elsewhere in the city.
Police said the two men were acquaintances but provided no further information about their relationship.
The suspect entered pleas of not guilty to both charges and is currently being held on a $1 million bond, according to WSGW.
