Investigation launched after body found on Jacksonville's Westside

Body spotted near Old Plank Road at Chaffee Road at 5 p.m. Sunday

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Police are working to learn the identity and cause of death of a person found dead late Sunday afternoon in a Westside ditch.

Someone reported spotting a body in a ditch off Pritchard Road, between Jones Road and Old Plank Road, around 5 p.m. according to the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office.

"There was a person on a bicycle who was riding on a trail and he saw [the body] and called us," said Sgt. Craig Waldrup.

Investigators said it's too early to tell, but are investigating the case as if foul play was involved in the death.

"It's looking like it was possibly dumped here," said Waldrup.

Police have not released information on whether the victim is a male or a female.? Detectives are waiting for the results from the Medical Examiner before to get information on the identity of the person.

"Right now, we are just collecting evidence. The Medical Examiner will take possession of the body and we will go from there. ... We are pursuing it as if it is foul play," said Waldrup.

Police are unsure how long the body was in the ditch, but say anyone who spots anything suspicious, like a possible body, should contact police immediately.

"Anytime you have this type of situation, where you find a body on the side of the road, you just want to proceed with caution," said Waldrup.

The investigation is ongoing.