Inuvik (Sep 27/04) - Skeletal remains found outside Inuvik Sept. 18 will be sent to Edmonton for analysis, says Cathy Menard, the NWT deputy chief coroner.

"They have the specialists that will do the dating of the remains," Menard said of the process which may help in identifying the bones.

Inuvik RCMP received a call about the discovery around 5:30 p.m. on the 18th, Cpl. Woody Woodfine said.

"We don't know the exact location, but it's about 40 minutes by boat west of town," he said. "It was just off the main channel."

Hunters in the area called in the report. Woodfine said pieces, as opposed to an intact skeleton, were found.

He said the RCMP are now awaiting the coroner's report.

While Woodfine said there are missing persons in the NWT, the coroner's results will determine whether or not the remains can be positively identified. Menard said the lab analysis could take up to three months.