Gilbert: Body Found Inside Burned Car in Dirt Lot Behind Strip Mall

GILBERT, Ariz. - An investigation is underway in the East Valley after a body was found inside a burned car in a dirt lot behind a strip mall, Gilbert police said.

Officers and firefighters were called to a car fire just before 12:30 a.m. on Wednesday, September 23, near Higley and Williams Field roads. After the flames were extinguished, an adult was found dead inside the vehicle, police said.

Scene closed for hours

The parking lot where the body was found was closed for hours as the investigation unfolded. Authorities in hazmat suits were seen inspecting the vehicle, and a large portion of the nearby Walgreens parking lot was blocked off with crime scene tape, according to local television reports.

Arizona's Family news chopper witnessed the burnt-out blue sedan in the dirt lot behind the strip mall.

Police: no foul play

Police said the preliminary investigation suggests there was no criminal involvement.

"Based on the preliminary investigation and evidence collected at the scene, including nearby video surveillance, this appears to be an isolated incident with no outstanding subjects and no concern for the community's safety," police said.

"Investigators have found no evidence of criminal involvement or foul play. The investigation remains ongoing," the department added.

What remains unknown

The victim has not yet been identified, and police have not released details about the events that led up to the car fire. The investigation is expected to continue.