He also explained taking care of tree limbs. That could imply compound actions. I live on a heavily wooded lot and at least four times a year we have to cut up and burn fallen branches. Sometimes we can drag them to the burn pile without cutting the up. More often than not we have to break out the chainsaw.BBM. He explained two changes in the backyard in his report to Tammy: signs of fire in the fire pit and disturbed ground in the pet cemetery. He used the raccoon for the second part.
Warning-graphic
As for dismemberment (IF it took place before burning): IMO it was done where there were tools and protection available. Also, the noise could not have alerted the neighbors. Did Alex own any suitable tools or did he borrow them from Chad? I think Alex's appartment and Chad's shed/barn are the best guesses as to the location.