This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Police Release Name of Victim Whose Severed Head Was Found Near the Hollywood Sign
The identity of the man whose severed head was found by a dog walker in the Hollywood Hills has been released today. Police say Hervey Medellin, 66, is the man whose head, hands and feet were found in Bronson Canyon Park near the Hollywood sign, according to City News Service.
Police told KTLA that they positively identified Medellin through his fingertips. Medellin was a retired employee of Mexicana Airlines. KTLA visited the Hollywood apartment where he lived and spoke with neighbors who expressed shock that Medellin turned out to be the victim in the case.
The search was for the rest of Medellin's body was called off on Thursday and an earlier rumor that his torso may have been found in Arizona was discounted. No arrests have been made in the case, according to CNS.
UPDATED 12/22: Police are keeping mum on details of investigation, but we've included an update on what neighbors and friends have said about Hervey Medellin.