Summary
On January 29, 2016, human skeletal remains were discovered in a wooded area near the 5800 block of University Pointe Boulevard, behind a local Walmart. The remains were found inside a sleeping bag, and evidence at the scene suggested that the man had been experiencing homelessness and had been living in the area. Due to the advanced decomposition of the remains, the cause and manner of death could not be determined, though no immediate signs of foul play were observed. The remains were transferred to the Mecklenburg County Medical Examiner’s Office. Investigators determined the remains belonged to a White man in his 30s or 40s, but conventional efforts to identify him were unsuccessful. The case was entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) as UP58098.
In 2022, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department submitted the highly degraded skeletal remains to Othram, a forensic laboratory in Texas specializing in human identification from degraded or limited DNA evidence. Othram used Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing® to develop a comprehensive DNA profile from the remains. Once the profile was generated, it was returned to CMPD, which then led the forensic genetic genealogy investigation to identify the unknown man.
This genealogical research led to a potential match in Kenneth Robert McCarthy, and further outreach revealed that his family had not heard from him since 2013. A DNA sample from a close relative confirmed the identification. McCarthy, born in 1961, was originally from New Jersey and had relocated to Charlotte prior to his disappearance. According to his family, he had worked in the information technology sector for several major corporations. They never gave up hope and expressed deep gratitude to the team that helped identify their loved one.
This case demonstrates the value of combining advanced forensic DNA analysis with persistent investigative work. Othram’s ability to generate a high-quality DNA profile from degraded remains, paired with CMPD’s investigative efforts, made it possible to solve a case that had previously reached a DNA dead end.
The investigation into this case is active and ongoing. As additional information develops, it will be released by the CMPD Public Affairs Division. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 704-432-8477 (TIPS) and speak directly with a detective in the Homicide Unit. Detective Hefner is the lead investigator assigned to the case. Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or by visiting the Charlotte Crime Stoppers website. For additional details, please reference report number 20160129-1841-01.
Dan Miller
Director of Customer Service
Dan guides law enforcement agencies across the United States and internationally through every step of the forensic process—from crime scene to courtroom. He ensures investigators have the support and resources they need to navigate advanced DNA testing and maximize the impact of forensic evidence in their cases.