Summary
On April 27, 2020, hikers discovered a human skull near the McLeod Flatt trailhead in Madera County, California. The skull was found on leaf-covered ground near Willow Creek at the bottom of a gorge, approximately 1.5 miles from the trailhead off USFS Road 5S07Z. The discovery site was north of Road 274 near Bass Lake.
The remains were determined to belong to a man estimated to be between 30 and 50 years old. Despite investigative efforts, his identity remained unknown for several years. Details of the case were entered into NamUs as UP159824.
In July 2026, Madera County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Specialist Daniella Romero submitted the remains to Othram in The Woodlands, Texas, for advanced DNA testing.
At Othram, scientists used Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing® to develop a comprehensive single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) profile from the remains. Othram’s forensic genetic genealogy team used the profile to search for connections that could help investigators establish the man’s identity.
In October 2026, Othram returned investigative leads to the Madera County Sheriff’s Office. A follow-up investigation, including additional testing conducted by the California Department of Justice Bureau of Forensic Science, confirmed the man’s identity as Kent Cross.
Cross had been reported missing by his father in October 2016. Search efforts at the time did not locate him. His family has now been notified of his identification and shared that he frequently visited the McLeod Flatt area, which he considered his “happy place.”
Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to contact the Madera County Sheriff’s Office at 559-675-7770. Anonymous tips may be submitted through Valley Crime Stoppers at 559-498-STOP (7867), or by texting “Tip MaderaSO” followed by a message to 888777.
NamUs funded Othram’s casework. The program supports investigations involving missing, unidentified, and unclaimed persons throughout the United States and its territories. The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) funds and administers NamUs, with program management provided under contract by RTI International. Othram thanks NamUs, RTI, and the NIJ for supporting the work that helped identify Kent Cross.
This is the 93rd case in California where investigators used Othram's technology to assist in identifying an individual. Learn about other cases involving Othram’s technology by visiting Othram’s website."
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.