Summary
In July 1998, the skeletal remains of an unidentified individual were found by city workers in the sewer in the 200 block of E. Harlem Road in North Kansas City, Missouri. Several law enforcement agencies responded and began an investigation and the collection. An autopsy, a dental exam, and an anthropological exam was completed. The Jackson County Medical Examiner's Office determined that the person was a man who was likely 30 to 50 years old and stood about 5'10" tall.
Despite a lengthy investigation, the man could not be identified and became known as Jackson County John Doe (1998). Details of the case were entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) as UP3122.
In an effort to determine if advanced DNA testing could help to identify the man, the Jackson County Medical Examiner's Office submitted forensic evidence to Othram in The Woodlands, Texas. At Othram, scientists successfully developed a DNA extract from the provided evidence and then used Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing® to build a comprehensive DNA profile for the man. Othram's in-house forensic genetic genealogy team used this profile in a genetic genealogy search to develop new investigative leads that were returned to law enforcement.
Using this new information, a follow-up investigation was conducted leading investigators to potential relatives of the man. Reference DNA samples were collected from potential relatives and compared to the DNA profile of the unknown man using KinSNP® Rapid Relationship Testing. This investigation led to the positive identification of the man, who is now known to be Mario Delapaz, also known as Mario De La Paz, born October 1, 1962. Mario's family has been notified of his identification.
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 unsolved for years.
The identification of Mario Delapaz represents the 23rd case in the State of Missouri where officials have publicly identified an individual using technology developed by Othram. Visit DNASolves to learn about other Missouri cases 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.