Summary
On March 15, 1964, Mary Simpson was last seen walking home after visiting relatives near East Market and Harriet Streets in Elmira, New York. When she failed to return, her father reported her missing that evening. Four days later, on March 19, Mary’s body was discovered in a wooded area near Combs Hill Road in Southport by a man hiking with his sons. Her remains had been partially concealed under debris and large stones. Investigators determined she had been sexually assaulted and strangled; and her mouth had been stuffed with twigs and dirt.
Despite an intensive investigation involving hundreds of interviews over the decades, the case went cold. But in 2023, Elmira Police, with assistance from the FBI, reopened the case using modern forensic methods. In February 2023, forensic evidence from the case was submitted to Othram’s laboratory in The Woodlands, Texas. Othram scientists developed a usable DNA extract from the evidence and applied Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing® to build a comprehensive DNA profile of the unknown suspect. We want to express gratitude to Season of Justice (SOJ) for assisting with funding for this case.
This profile was used by the FBI's forensic genetic genealogy team in a genetic genealogical search to generate new investigative leads. Working with Elmira Police and the FBI, investigators narrowed in on a potential suspect. Further investigative work confirmed the identity of the individual believed to be responsible for Mary’s murder. Although the suspect is now deceased, law enforcement is expected to announce their identity at a press conference scheduled for February 10, 2026, at the Chemung County District Attorney’s Office.
This resolution, more than 60 years after the crime, marks one of the oldest cases solved using forensic genetic genealogy and highlights the incredible impact of combining scientific innovation with persistent investigative efforts. The collaboration between local and federal agencies, together with Othram’s technology, was essential in finally providing answers to the family of Mary Theresa Simpson.
This identification is the 18th case in the State of New York where officials have publicly identified an individual using technology developed by Othram. To read about other cases in New York, 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.