Box of human heads stolen in Denver; police are investigating

A box containing human heads intended for scientific research was stolen from a freight truck in Denver, Colorado, last week, according to police.

The incident occurred sometime between Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning while the truck was parked in Denver’s Central Park neighborhood, the Denver Post reported. That's when thieves allegedly broke into the truck and made off with the human specimens and a dolly.

Police reportedly noted the blue-and-white cardboard box was clearly marked with a label reading "Exempt Human Specimen." Science Care, the research company transporting the box, displayed its logo on every side.

According to the Post, an investigation is ongoing but no arrests have been made. Police are asking the public to come forward with any information.

The lingering questions: Why would thieves target such macabre items? What possible purpose could the heads serve outside of use for medical research?

At this point, it's unclear if the thief or thieves were aware of what was inside the box prior to breaking into the truck and making off with the contents.

Adding to the mystery, Denver resident Isaac Fields told KDVR-TV that the neighborhood where the theft occurred is residential and family-oriented. It's characterized by families being out and about, children getting off the bus from school, and people out walking the dogs, the outlet noted.

"[It's] pretty shocking," Fields said of the crime and the setting. "I guess I don’t see too many strange things happening around here usually, but you know you never know."

"Wow! I would have been so terrified," he exclaimed.

According to Science Care's website, the organization is "a body donation to science program that helps future generations through improved scientific research and education."

The human heads were on their way to being used in medical research.

"My wife actually does Ph.D. research at the University of Colorado Anschutz," Fields added. "So cadavers are definitely utilized in certain situations. And I’m assuming that was probably the case."

Anyone who might find the box, either discarded or abandoned, is asked to call the police and report the information.