Summary
In December 2021, the remains of an unidentified individual were found inside of an abandoned residence on Wolfe Street in Brunswick, Georgia. Brunswick is a small town with a population of approximately 15,000 residents located just south of Savannah near the Turtle River. The Brunswick Police Department responded to the scene and collected evidence in hopes of identifying the unknown individual.
It was determined that the remains were that of a black male who was between the ages of 45 and 60 years. The man was estimated to be 5'9" to 5'11" tall. Near the man's remains, investigators found a baseball cap, red sweater, cargo shorts, and a sock. No identifying information was discovered at the scene. The Brunswick Police Department requested that the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) assist with the investigation and identification.
Details of the case were entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) as UP122003. Despite investigators' efforts, the man could not be identified, and he was classified as John Doe. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is now seeking Othram's assistance in hopes that advanced DNA technology will provide new leads about the man’s identity. Othram has assisted Georgia officials in the identification of numerous other individuals which you can read about here.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation submitted forensic evidence to Othram in The Woodlands, Texas. Othram scientists will work to develop a suitable DNA extract that can be used with Forensic Grade Genome Sequencing® to produce a comprehensive DNA profile. Othram's in-house forensic genetic genealogy team will perform records research and use genetic genealogy to develop new leads in the case. A DNASolves® crowdfund has been established to cover the casework costs. Anyone can contribute here.
If you have information that could aid in the investigation, please contact the Georgia Bureau of Investigation by calling 912-729-6198 and referencing the agency case number 14-0101-01-22.
Michael Vogen
Director of Case Management
Michael works with law enforcement agencies throughout the United States and Canada on “unsolvable“ cases that can benefit from advanced DNA testing methods. He helps these agencies use cutting edge DNA sequencing and new forensic techniques to develop investigative leads for their cases.