Summary
In 1996, the partial skeletal remains of multiple unidentified individuals were discovered at Fox Hollow Farm in Westfield, Indiana, north of Indianapolis. Fox Hollow Farm is an 18-acre farm and the former home of alleged serial killer Herb Baumeister. Investigators recovered thousands of burnt and crushed skeletal remains belonging to as many as twelve different people at the residence. It is believed that the remains belonged to men who were killed by Baumeister. No identifying information was available for the men and their identities have remained a mystery for decades.
With a need to identify these victims, Hamilton County Coroner Jeff Jellison launched a renewed investigation in hopes of identifying the remains recovered at Fox Hollow Farm. To do so, the Hamilton County Coroner's Office collaborated with the University of Indiana at Indianapolis to submit forensic evidence to Othram for advanced DNA testing.
In 2024, Othram received forensic evidence belonging to one of the victims. Othram scientists developed a comprehensive DNA profile for the unknown man using Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing®. After successfully completing the process, Othram's team worked to develop new investigative leads for a follow-up investigation, which led investigators to potential relatives of the man, who is now known to be Daniel Thomas Halloran of Indiana, born May 10, 1972.
This latest identification marks another step toward bringing closure to families of victims who have remained unidentified for decades. “This identification is a significant development in our ongoing efforts to provide answers to the families of those who went missing,” said Jeff Jellison, Hamilton County Coroner. “We are grateful for the expertise of Othram and the advances in forensic science that made this possible.”
Othram previously assisted in the identification of Jeffrey A. Jones of Fillmore, Indiana. Jones was reported missing in August 1993 and his remains were found in the same way. His remains were identified in May 2024.
The identification of Halloran represents the 11th case in the State of Indiana where officials have publicly identified an individual using technology developed by Othram. To read about other cases in Indiana, visit DNASolves.
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.