Human Remains Identified After Being Found in a Plastic Bag Behind a Strip Mall 

A grim discovery behind a Tennessee strip mall has now been linked to a man who vanished years ago.

Authorities say human remains found inside a plastic bag in a wooded area behind a shopping center have been identified as Matthew Edward Madewell, a man who had been missing since late 2024.

The Metro Nashville Police Department confirmed the identification on Friday, March 13, after investigators used DNA testing to match the remains to Madewell.

The remains were originally discovered on October 10, 2025, in a wooded area behind a strip mall along Murfreesboro Pike in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, according to local reports.

At the time of his disappearance, Madewell was believed to be living somewhere near Trinity Lane in Nashville. Police say he may have been working with a construction company involved in hotel projects in the downtown area.

Investigators were ultimately able to confirm the identity after receiving a tip, which led officers to conduct DNA testing on the remains.

So far, authorities have not released details about how Madewell died, and the circumstances surrounding his disappearance and death remain under investigation.

Officials say both the Metro Nashville Police Department and the Murfreesboro Police Department are continuing to work the case.

Detectives are asking anyone who may have information about Madewell’s last known whereabouts to come forward.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Cold Case detectives at 615-862-7329.