Mystery still surrounds Mercedes Benz found buried in Atherton backyard

ATHERTON — The mystery still remains surrounding a Mercedes Benz stolen in 1992 found that was found by landscapers buried in an Atherton backyard.

Since the discovery Thursday morning, investigators have deployed cadaver dogs, dug out the vehicle by hand and used high-tech ground penetrating radar to see if there was any sign of human remains or foul play.

“This examination (by the radar) did not reveal anything unusual or suspicious at the scene and no human remains were located,
Atherton said in a Monday morning news release. “This concluded our on-scene investigation.”

The car was dug up and taken from the property in the 300 block of Stockbridge Avenue by tow truck to the San Mateo County Crime Lab for further inspection and processing.  

Investigators were able to determine the Mercedes Benz was reported as stolen to the Palo Alto police in September 1992.  The possible owner of the vehicle is believed to be deceased. 

“We are waiting for DMV records that are being retrieved in the DMV archives,” police officials said in the news release.

Police also said the vehicle was buried before the current homeowner occupied the $15 million home. They are not suspected of any wrongdoing.

But the activity and large law enforcement presence has drawn the attention of neighbors in the affluent town located in the northern edge of the Silicon Valley.  

“We’re just waiting to hear what’s in the car. I think he probably just buried the car for insurance money,” said neighbor Kathy Consani.

Police said the vehicle was buried approximately four or five feet into the ground. There were unused bags of concrete found throughout the vehicle.