Human skeletal remains have been found in a tent near a residential street in Hull, police have said.
Officers were called to an alleyway close to Melwood Grove after a call from a member of the public at 20:15 GMT on Thursday.
Humberside Police says it believed the remains were from one person.
Police remain at the scene and investigations are expected to continue into next week. People living nearby have been told to expect an “increased police presence”.
Det Ch Insp Ben Robinson, leading the investigation, said: “I understand a report of this nature will likely cause concern amongst the community.
“I would like to offer my reassurance that I have a dedicated team of specialist forensic officers carrying out lines of enquiry to establish the circumstances surrounding the discovery.
“I would encourage anyone with any concerns to please come and speak to us.”