Authorities in Mississippi have detained a couple following the discovery of “unidentified human remains” in the backyard of an 81-year-old woman’s residence, who had been reported missing earlier this week.

The missing woman, Carol Ryan, is the mother of 50-year-old John Ryan. Both he and his 48-year-old wife, Samantha Ryan, have been taken into custody in connection with the case.

Family members reported Carol Ryan as missing on Monday, although they noted she had not been in contact for several months. Acting on this information, the Jackson Police Department obtained a search warrant for her property. The police conducted a thorough search of the premises, including the house, surrounding land, and vehicles located at the address, according to Jackson Police Chief Tyree Jones.

By Tuesday evening, authorities announced the grim discovery of human remains buried in the backyard. Chief Jones confirmed that both John and Samantha Ryan were brought in for questioning following the find.

On Wednesday, the couple was formally charged with the desecration of a human corpse. John Ryan’s bail was set at $100,000, while Samantha Ryan’s was set at $75,000, as reported by WLBT.

Although the coroner has yet to officially identify the remains discovered on Carol Ryan’s property, they are believed to belong to the missing woman.