Modesto Police Investigate Death Near Golf Course

Modesto, CA – Modesto Police Detectives are investigating the death of a 57-year-old male found in a homeless camp just south of the Dryden Golf Course in Modesto.     

Witnesses called “9-1-1” at 9:58 A.M. requesting to meet with the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department to get help for a friend.  Deputies determined that the scene of the death was in the City of Modesto jurisdiction and notified Modesto Police.  Modesto Police Officers met with the deputies and then responded to the scene, locating the victim and requesting emergency medical services.  When the man was confirmed to be deceased, the area was secured and a crime scene set up.   

Preliminary investigation indicates that the man was homeless and lived in the camp just off the golf course by the river, with several other people.  A witness heard what was described as someone yelling for help and went to get help.  Both witnesses returned a short time later and found the man dead in the camp.  The cause of death is still under investigation, and it is unknown if the death is accidental or as a result of a crime.  The victim’s identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.  The Stanislaus County Coroner’s Office responded and took possession of the man’s remains.  

Investigators ask that anyone who was in the area of the Dryden Golf Course, around the time of the incident or anyone with information about this incident to please contact Detective Dale Lingerfelt of the Modesto Police Department’s Crimes Against Persons Unit (209) 572-9551 or Crime Stoppers at (209)521-4636.

Anyone requesting information about this press release is asked to contact Lieutenant Chris Fuzie of the Modesto Police Department Media Relation’s Office at (209) 652-1853.