RCMP are on the scene in Moncton where human remains were found. (Jessica Doria-Brown/CBC)

Police in Moncton have called in the major crime unit after a passerby found human remains in a narrow field behind an apartment complex near Wheeler Boulevard on Saturday afternoon.

A man discovered the remains while out for a walk near the Church Street overpass just before 4 p.m., according to police.

"They just happened to come along the human remains while walking and then they notified police," said RCMP Sgt. Daniel Landry.

Police are remaining tight-lipped on any details surrounding the grisly discovery.

RCMP said they're trying to identify the remains and they still don't know the circumstances surrounding the person's death.

"It's too early in the investigation to determine that. The autopsy will help determine the identity of the body as well as the circumstance of the death," said Landry.