NYPD uses tattoos to identify dismembered Queens victim
Distinctive tattoos, including a three-name cluster and a flower, may help ID the woman found in Idlewild Park; investigation ongoing
The NYPD is pursuing a tattoo-based lead to identify a dismembered torso found in Queens earlier this week. The remains are believed to belong to a woman of Guyanese descent, and authorities say the head, arms and legs are missing. The torso was discovered by sanitation workers around 8 a.m. Tuesday, who alerted investigators after noticing a strong odor emanating from a bag secured with tape and rope along a routine route in Queens.
Police described the tattoos as distinctive, including a cluster that features three names and a flower. Investigators are cross-checking those names and designs against missing-person reports to try to identify the victim. The discovery occurred along a route in Idlewild Park, a nature preserve north of John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Detectives noted the torso appears largely intact aside from a broken rib likely caused when the person was dropped. The dismemberment is believed to have been carried out with straight-edge instruments such as a knife or saw, though investigators have not released other details. A potential lead has emerged, but police did not disclose additional information on Thursday, and officials said there will be no notification to the victim’s family until more is known.
Officials say the victim is believed to be a woman of Guyanese descent and are reviewing missing-person reports that could fit the tattoos and other known details. The NYPD said the inquiry remains active as detectives examine surveillance footage, tips from the public, and records in state and national databases.
No suspects or persons of interest have been publicly identified, and authorities cautioned that this is an early-stage inquiry. Police said they are pursuing multiple leads and coordinating with other agencies as needed, with the goal of confirming the victim’s identity and the circumstances surrounding the dismemberment.
Analysts note that the case illustrates the role of distinctive body art in attempting to solve violent crimes, especially when other biometric data are unavailable. Investigators said they would provide updates as information becomes available.
Public assistance is requested from people who may know of missing persons fitting the victim’s description, or who can help connect tattoos with individuals reported missing in the area.
Idlewild Park is part of Queens County; this case remains under active investigation, and authorities expect to share additional details as they become available.
