Skull found in Holyoke canal was human

HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) - A state anthropologist has confirmed that it was indeed a human skull that was pulled out of a Holyoke canal a couple weeks ago.

Holyoke Police Captain Arthur Monfette told 22News that tests indicate the skull is very old, and likely came from a person of Asian descent.

Capt. Monfette said he does not think foul play is involved. Instead, he thinks someone may have been using the skull for religious practices.

The canal, located near the corner of Main and South Canal Streets, was drained Monday October 15th for cleaning purposes.

A member of a nearby construction site reported that he thought he could see a skull in the drained canal.

Capt. Monfette said no further investigations on the matter are needed.