Body of woman found in South Mountain Reservation

SOUTH MOUNTAIN RESERVATION, N.J. (WABC) -- The search continues Wednesday in the area where the body of a woman was found in South Mountain Reservation in Essex County.

A man hiking with his dog came across the body on Tuesday. Dozens of investigators were combing the scene looking for clues and evidence Wednesday.

After the body was discovered, officers evacuated the park, which spans more than 2,000 acres and is a popular place for hiking.

The discovery was in a heavily wooded area with no trails.

Kenneth Siegal was hiking with his dog Kimba when he glanced down to the ground and saw the victim.

Siegal called police and showed us a picture of the location where the body was apparently dumped in the root hole left by a fallen tree.

Siegal says the victim's clothes were missing and the female may have been placed at the location for awhile because the body was in poor condition.

Authorities are working to identify the victim using dental records and fingerprints to help in that process.

At this time, the cause of her death is unknown.

The Essex County Prosecutor's Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force is investigating.