Human skeletal remains were found Tuesday evening in what Alabama authorities say was a clandestine grave behind a residence.

The skeletal remains were discovered at approximately 5:20 p.m. behind a residence in the 1400 block of Brighton Road in Birmingham, Alabama, Jefferson County Deputy Coroner Bill Yates said Wednesday.

A forensic examination is planned for today in an effort to determine the identity of the remains and the manner and cause of death, Yates said.

Birmingham police are investigating the discovery as well.