Authorities seek family of man found dead in forest near Wheaton

MILTON TWP. (Sun-Times Media Wire) - Authorities are still trying to identify a body found in a west suburban forest preserve six years ago.

The severely decomposed remains of a Hispanic or Native American man between the ages of 45 and 65 were found April 13, 2010, at the Herrick Lake Forest Preserve near Butterfield and Herrick roads in unincorporated Wheaton, according to the DuPage County sheriff’s office.

His name might have been Manuel Romero, the sheriff’s office announced Wednesday.

In 2013, authorities released a composite sketch of the man based on digital reconstruction of his skull. He had a “very distinctive” dental pattern with numerous missing teeth, including two on the upper front row, authorities said.

The man was wearing an extra-large gray Hanes-brand sweatshirt with the words “Little Nicky,” police said.

Anyone who knew Manuel Romero or who has other information should call detectives at (630) 407-2333.