The bodies of two men who had been reported missing were found last week in a remote area of the California desert, authorities confirmed. The discovery followed an intensive search at a property in Lancaster, where law enforcement spent several days conducting excavations.

The men were identified as 61-year-old Ricky Phillips and 46-year-old Edward Perez, both residents of the Lancaster area. Phillips, described as a white male, was reported missing on September 10, while Perez, a Hispanic male, was reported missing on September 19, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. The Los Angeles County medical examiner’s office released the names Thursday but declined further comment.

Deputy Justin Pyon of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said Thursday evening that detectives had completed their search on a large plot of land near 50th Street East and Avenue F in Lancaster. Investigators had been working in the area for several days, using cadaver dogs, hand tools, and heavy equipment to dig around a property adjacent to a dilapidated home.

Additionally, authorities searched a second location on Blooming Park Street in Lancaster. At that site, officers briefly detained a man who was handcuffed and placed in a patrol car before being released. No arrests have been made in connection with the case.

The ongoing investigation was prompted by the missing persons reports filed for Phillips and Perez. Officials have not disclosed any details regarding a potential link between the two men or the circumstances that led to their deaths. Deputy Pyon stated that no further information would be released as the investigation continues.

Authorities have urged anyone with information about the case to contact the Los Angeles County Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.