Murder investigation underway after body found in burned car in Angeles National Forest

ANGELES NATIONAL FOREST (KABC) -- A homicide investigation was underway Friday after a body was discovered in a burned-out car in the Angeles National Forest, Los Angeles County sheriff's officials said.

Detectives responded to Mile Marker 4.88 on Big Tujunga Canyon Road in the early morning hours to investigate the death of a man, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to Det. Ray Lugo, the call was first received by the Los Angeles County Fire Department around 5:43 a.m. When fire crews arrived, they found a newer model Chevrolet completely engulfed in flames.

L.A. County firefighters called the U.S. Forestry Service to help quickly douse the flames due to concern it would spread to surrounding hillsides.

When crews knocked down the blaze, they opened the trunk of the scorched vehicle and found a body burned beyond recognition, Lugo said. Based on evidence at the scene, investigators said they believe the man was murdered.

There was no immediate word on the body's identity or information on the owner of the car.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500.