A homicide investigation is underway after a man was found stabbed to death in a San Francisco park early Thursday, police said.
The body was discovered by a passing jogger in Bernal Heights Park and reported to police around 5:30 a.m.
Paramedics were called to the scene, but police declared the man dead on arrival. Sources told NBC Bay Area that the body was "badly mutilated."
Footage from the crime scene appeared to show a camouflage-print knife sheath.
Neighbors are understandably concerned. Juanita Contreras lives nearby and brings her dog to the park. She was disturbed to hear about the discovery of the body.
"When I knew how close it was, it was very scary because this has been a very quiet neighborhood, especially since high-end real estate has come to this area," Contreras said. "We were just talking about how we were walking there late last night. It could have been right when this was happening. We didn’t see anything."
San Francisco police say they don’t believe it’s random, and neighbors shouldn't be concerned for their safety. But they added that they would be increasing patrols in the area.
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The police department's homicide division is looking into the case. As of Thursday morning, the city's medical examiner said the body has not yet been identified.
Supervisor Hilary Ronen and police department representatives will host a community meeting next Wednesday to share what they know and address concerns.
People with information are asked to called the San Francisco police tip line at 415-575-4444 or text a tip to TIP411 and begin the message with "SFPD."
