Summary
In February 2017, the partial skeletal remains of an unidentified individual were discovered in an abandoned building on Vashti Street,a short street in a light-industrial area of Nashville, Tennessee just east of the Cumberland River. Vashti Street travels under I-65, the interstate that connects the Great Lakes region to the Gulf Coast. Investigators believe that the remains are that of an adult man of mixed ancestry who was between the ages of 40 to 65 years and 5'3" to 6'0" tall. The man was found with several pieces of clothing, including a tan/brown canvas jacket, a blue button-down jacket with an "Astro Boats" logo and black Lee jeans.
After the remains were recovered, investigators worked to determine the man's identity, but they were not able to, and six months later entered details of the case into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) as UP16885. The man became known as Davidson County John Doe.
Now, the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department has partnered with Othram to determine if advanced DNA testing can help identify Davidson County John Doe. At Othram, scientists will develop a suitable DNA extract that can be used with Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing® to develop a comprehensive DNA profile for records research and forensic genetic genealogy. Othram's in-house forensic genetic genealogy team will work to develop new leads in the case. Anyone with information that could aid in the investigation is encouraged to contact the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department by calling 615-416-7803 and referencing UP16885 or agency case number 2017-0161155.
A DNASolves crowdfund has been created to raise funds for the casework costs. Your support can make a difference in identifying this individual and reconnecting him with his family. Please consider donating to the DNASolves fund to help cover the costs of advanced DNA testing. Additionally, if you have taken a consumer DNA test, you can contribute by opting into forensic genetic genealogy matching to assist in solving this case and others like it.
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.