Authorities have identified the man whose body was discovered in a wooded area near Memorial Field in Concord last month as 29-year-old Timothy Russell, a longtime resident of the city who was experiencing homelessness.
Russell’s decomposing remains were found on June 23 in the woods behind the junior varsity softball field, not far from the park’s football area. The discovery was made by members of a local Concord Coed Softball League team, composed mostly of medical professionals, who were playing a game when they noticed a strong odor coming from the wooded area behind the northern dugout. Suspecting the worst, several members searched the area after the game and found Russell’s body approximately 250 feet into the woods.
The deceased was wearing a black sweatshirt and sweatpants. His body was surrounded by signs of a makeshift encampment including food containers, debris, a tent, and a sleeping bag suggesting that he had been living in the area for some time.
Concord Police responded to the call and quickly secured the scene with yellow tape as investigators began their work. The cause of death has not yet been publicly released, and officials continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Russell’s death.
Russell’s passing has brought renewed attention to the challenges facing the homeless community in Concord, especially in wooded areas surrounding public spaces. Community members and advocates have expressed concern about the lack of resources for individuals like Russell, who struggle with housing insecurity and are often isolated.
As the investigation continues, local leaders and support groups are calling for more outreach and support services to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
