Body found in port-a-potty at Lakewood downtown square prompts police investigation

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LAKEWOOD, N.J. — A dead body was discovered inside a port-a-potty in downtown Lakewood, prompting an active police investigation, officials confirmed Tuesday.

The body was found inside a portable toilet located in Lakewood’s downtown square, an area that has long been frequented by homeless individuals. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased or the cause of death.

Lakewood police responded to the scene after the discovery and have since cordoned off the area surrounding the port-a-potty. It remains unclear how long the body had been inside before being found.

The square has seen a visible presence of unhoused individuals in recent years. The area previously offered tree cover, but several years ago Lakewood Township removed all shade trees…