The Brief
- More than 20 severed human feet have washed up along Puget Sound and Salish Sea beaches since 2007, sparking widespread online speculation.
- Experts say the phenomenon is explained by cold water, natural decomposition and marine activity, not foul play.
- Officials note modern footwear helps feet detach, float and travel long distances, making them more likely to be found than other remains.
GRAYS HARBOR COUNTY, Wash. – Severed human feet, often still inside sneakers, have washed up on Puget Sound beaches for nearly two decades, fueling global fascination and internet theories. But experts say the explanation is rooted in science, not mystery.
A Global Phenomenon With Local Roots
Big picture view:
Since at least 2007, investigators have documented more than 20 detached human feet found along the coasts of the Salish Sea. From British Columbia to Tacoma, Washington.
The unusual pattern has spawned social media posts, documentaries, a Wikipedia page and widespread speculation on platforms like Instagram and TikTok about what’s behind the so-called “Salish Sea foot mystery.”
How Nature and Footwear Intersect
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