Houston Police Department

April 9, 2005 -- Houston police are investigating the death of a man found in the 1800 block of Crawford about 12:45 p. m. on Friday, April 8, 2005.

The identity of the male victim and the cause of death are pending an autopsy by the Harris County Medical Examiner's office.

HPD Homicide Division Officer R. Swainson reported:

City of Houston parking meter attendants conducting routine duties saw a green Chevrolet van, Texas license plate #S96FWB, parked at an expired parking meter on Crawford. The same meter attendants had seen this vehicle several days earlier and had issued illegal parking citations to the vehicle. On this date, they noticed a foul odor coming from the vehicle. Upon further inspection, the attendants saw what appeared to be a body in the cargo area of the van. The witnesses call police and an ambulance to the scene.

Officers responding to the scene said it appeared the victim had been at the location for several days and confirmed the vehicle and the deceased male had been reported missing several days ago.

Anyone with information in this case is urged to contact the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

NJM/JFC
4/8/05
Inc#53511105

For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at 713-308-3200.