Summary
In September 2008, the skeletal remains of an unidentified individual were found floating at the Alameda Marina in Alameda County, California, which is in the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area. It was determined that the remains were that of an adult male. The remains were found with a white or gray sock and and size 8.5 Vision brand skateboard shoe. Despite extensive investigative efforts, the person's identity remained unknown and the case went cold. 
In 2024, the Alameda County Sheriff-Coroner and California Department of Justice partnered with Othram to employ advanced forensic DNA analysis in hopes that the John Doe could be identified. Forensic evidence was submitted to Othram's laboratory in The Woodlands, Texas where scientists used Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing® to build a comprehensive DNA profile suitable for genealogical research. Othram’s in-house forensic genetic genealogy team then used the profile in a genetic genealogy investigation to develop new leads in the case.
These leads allowed investigators to conduct follow-up inquiries that guided them to potential relatives of the John Doe. KinSNP® Rapid Relationship Testing was then used to compare the unknown man's comprehensive DNA profile to that of a potential relative. The KinSNP® analysis helped to confirm a genetic relationship, leading to the identification of the man as Esteban Pablo, a 21-year-old man who was last seen in Alameda County in September 2007, one year prior to his remains being found.
Funding for the advanced DNA testing and forensic genetic genealogy used in this case was provided by NamUs, a national program that assists the criminal justice community with the investigation and resolution of missing, unidentified, and unclaimed persons cases across the United States and its territories. NamUs is funded and administered by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) and is managed through a contract with Research Triangle Institute International (RTI). Othram is grateful for the support of RTI, NamUs, and the NIJ.
Individuals who have taken a consumer DNA test can aid ongoing forensic investigations by joining the DNASolves database. Expanding the pool of available DNA data increases the likelihood of successful identifications, helping to reunite families with their missing loved ones and resolve cases that have remained unanswered for years.
The identification of Esteban Pablo is the 67th case in the State of California where officials have publicly identified an individual using technology developed by Othram. Visit DNASolves to learn about other California case, where your support can help bring long-awaited answers to families.
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.