Body on fire found inside Otis Pike Preserve in Manorville

MANORVILLE (WABC) -- Authorities are investigating after a horrific discover on Long Island.

A passing motorist noticed a fire on the side of the road in Manorville and saw a burning body shortly before 2 p.m. Thursday.

Police say the body was found within the Otis Pike Preserve, state-owned land used for recreation. The victim has not been identified, and the county medical examiner is to perform an autopsy.

The Manorville Fire Department was dispatched to the scene along with state police and a Suffolk police helicopter. Officials say representatives from the state Department of Environmental Conservation were also present.

Riverhead Police Chief David Hegermiller says authorities initially weren't sure if the charred remains found belonged to a human or a mannequin.

The investigation is ongoing.