Mystery Surrounds Body of Girl Found in Suitcase With 'Future Princess Hero' Shirt, Panda Pants

"Future Princess Hero." 

So read the shirt of the little girl whose body was found dumped along a California trail on Tuesday. Authorities are seeking help identifying her.

According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, the girl is believed to be between 8 and 13 years old. A sketch released by the department captures her in the clothes she was found in — a baby pink long-sleeved shirt with the word "princess" crossed out and replaced with "hero," and gray pants with a panda print. She is black, about 4-foot-5 and weighed roughly 55 pounds, according to officials. 

Officials said that she was found partially inside a suitcase apparently discarded near the hiking trail south of Hacienda Boulevard and Glenmark Drive in Hacienda Heights. It's believed the remains were there for 24 hours before she was found. 

She was pronounced dead at the scene, officials said. It's unclear whether she was alive when put in the bag.

Authorities added that the death is suspicious and being investigated as a homicide, but there were no "obvious signs of trauma to the victim’s body," Lt. Scott Hoglund said at a press conference Wednesday. 

The suitcase itself is a black roll-away duffel bag that is expandable and commonly available for purchase at discount stores or tourist shops.

“We are looking for any lead," Hoglund said. "If you wish to remain anonymous, Crime Stoppers is a great option — you can remain anonymous and report what you may know."

Anyone with information is urged to call the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500, or Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS.

RELATED STORIES