Summary
In August 1991, the skeletal remains of an unidentified individual were discovered off of US-41 in Monteagle, Tennessee. Monteagle is located in the Cumberland Plateau region in the southeastern part of the state. Investigators arrived at the scene and determined that the remains were of an adult white male between the ages of 51 and 60 years old who stood at 5’8” tall. It was also found that the time between the man’s death and the discovery of the remains was approximately 15 months.
At the time of the man’s discovery, he was wearing “Lee” branded jeans and black leather shoes. The man also wore a digital watch with the name “Ford” written on the face. No identifying characteristics for the man could be determined.
After the man’s remains were recovered, details of the case were entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) as UP1557. Despite investigators’ work to identify the man, his identity remains a mystery.
In 2024, the Grundy County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the University of Tennessee, partnered with Othram to determine if advanced DNA testing can help to determine the identity of the man. Othram scientists will work to develop a suitable DNA extract that can be used with Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing® to develop a comprehensive DNA profile to be used in records research and forensic genetic genealogy. Anyone with information that could aid in the investigation is encouraged to contact the Grundy County Sheriff’s Office by calling 931-692-3466 and referencing agency case number UT91-31F.
A DNASolves crowdfund has been established to cover the casework costs. Anyone can contribute here.
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.