Identity Of Body Released

By Bill Johnson Published Jul 31, 2003 01:15 pm Updated Jan 31, 2009 04:52 pm

Authorities have now released the name of the body found yesterday afternoon along Highway 108 east of Sonora. Tuolumne County Sherif spokesman Lt. John Steely says the body is that of 45-year-old Wesley Brent Lawrence.

The death is being investigated as a homicide, but Steely says there was a handgun found next to Lawrence. “There may be a possible wound to the head,” Steely said.

An autopsy is being done this afternoon. “Until we get the results of that back, we wonÂ´t know the exact cause of death.” Steely says at this time, though, there is “no indication to show itÂ´s a homicide.” He said it could have been a possible suicide or accidental death.

Lawrence lived on Longeway Road near the area where his body was found.

Steely says the body had been there for a while.