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Investigators Trying To Determine If Burned Body Is That Of Missing College Student

CASTAIC (CBSLA.com) — A burned body was found Wednesday morning near Castaic Lake.

Los Angeles County Fire Department officials responded to Lake Hughes Road around 6 a.m. after a cyclist reported a small brush fire.

When firefighters arrived and extinguished the flames, they realized it was a body that had been burning.

"We don't have a whole lot of information. As a matter of fact, all we know about the individual is that it is a male. We are investigating it as a homicide," said Lt. Dave Dolson of the L.A. County Sheriff's Department.

The body was discovered about three miles from where authorities have been searching for a missing 19-year-old college student from Orange County.

Burned Body Found Near Castaic Lake

Bryce Laspisa's car was found overturned near the main boat launch on Aug. 30. His laptop, phone and wallet were inside the vehicle.

The teen was on his way home from Northern California. His parents were concerned he was distraught after breaking up with his girlfriend.

Laspisa last spoke to his mother early Friday morning and told her he was tired and pulling off the road to rest.

"Up to this point, we have not been able to establish a connection. Once a coroner conducts their examination, I'm sure a lot more questions will be answered," said Dolson.

The Laspisa family told CBS2/KCAL9's Tom Wait they were in the Castaic Lake area as officials investigated.

The man's uncle, Frank David, spoke about the news from near his hometown outside of Chicago.

"That's more than likely him, which I don't want to really face right now," he said. "I want my nephew back, that's what I want. It's sad."

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Couple Searches For Son, 19, After Car Found Overturned Near Castaic Lake

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