Fairfax Station death being investigated as homicide, Fairfax County police say

FAIRFAX STATION, Va. - A homicide investigation was launched in Fairfax County after a body was discovered Wednesday morning, according to officials.

Fairfax County police said a passerby spotted the victim, who was identified as 30-year-old Michael Cooker, lying on the side of the road in the 6500 block of Colchester Road in Fairfax Station at about 6:49 a.m.

The Herndon man suffered trauma to the upper body and was pronounced dead at the scene, according to officials.

The medical examiner's office will conduct an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of Cooker's death, police said.

The victim was found a few hundred feet beyond a bridge that locals in the area call "Bunny Man Bridge." The bridge has attracted curious teenagers and others for years because of an urban legend that claims a man in a bunny suit will come out of the woods and attack with a hatchet.

The crowds have caused headaches for neighbors in this area and it has prompted Fairfax County police to block the roadway every Halloween to keep an eye out for trespassers. However, it is not clear if the bridge could be related to this crime.

"At this point, it's hard for me to rule anything out and comment on anything further -- just that the investigation is pending and as soon as we receive anymore information," said Fairfax County Police Sgt. Aaron Pfeiff. "We are asking for the public's help. If they have information, they can contact the Fairfax County police non-emergency number and that number is 703-691-2131."

Investigators said no weapons were found at the scene and there was no evidence to indicate there is a threat to the public.