Kings County RCMP said they do not suspect foul play in the disappearance of MacDonald. Personal items of MacDonald's were found nearby a short time later, as well as human bones, including a skull.

RCMP Sgt. Don MacGregor said it could be some time before the remains are officially identified."We're hoping that with the use of dental records that a pathologist will be able to confirm identity," said MacGregor.  "If that can be done that will be done relatively quickly. Failing that, then we have to resort to other methods."

MacGregor said because of the poor condition of the remains determining an exact cause of death may be quite difficult.The 39-year-old was visiting his family in Souris when he was last seen on Dec. 4. His car was found in the woods near Bayfield, north of Souris, in late May.