"Based on the research and the historical data thus far, the remains are most likely that of former inmates from the correctional facility, however the investigation is ongoing," Bergenstock said.

The city of Auburn's Corporation Counsel has been in touch with an Albany attorney for the state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, though Bergenstock said he was not involved with their discussion.

"DOCCS was contacted by the City of Auburn PD and is assisting in efforts to determine the origin of the remains," said Thomas Mailey, spokesperson for DOCCS.

Bergenstock said it is unknown at this time whether there are more remains currently on the Fitch Avenue lot. If there are more, he said, once the investigation determines who is responsible for them, "anything further will be turned over to that specific agency."

Historical records and newspapers read that the state of New York owned the land, formerly known as 47 Fitch Ave., in 1897 to 1909 as a convict cemetery. The lot changed hands to Auburn Button Works Manager J.H. Woodruff in 1909, and it's unclear when the land deeds failed to describe the burial ground on the property.