Summary
In November 2022, skeletal remains were discovered in an abandoned residence in Indianapolis, Indiana near E 30th Street and N Sherman Drive. Investigators were called to the scene and determined that the partial skeletal remains were that of a black male estimated to be no older than 50 years of age. No other identifying characteristics could be determined. Alongside the individual's remains, investigators found paperwork and pamphlets that date back to 2012.
Despite investigators' efforts, the man could not be identified, and he was classified as John Doe. Details of the case were entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) as UP98225. The Marion County Coroner's Office is now seeking to utilize advanced DNA technology in hopes of providing new leads about the man’s identity.
In 2024, the Marion County Coroner's Office once again teamed with Othram to determine if advanced forensic DNA testing could help establish an identity for the man or a close relative. Marion County Coroner’s office previously partnered with Othram to identify Randy Carl Lee and Patricia Anna Anderson. Anyone with information that could aid in this investigation is encouraged to contact the Marion County Coroner's Office by calling 317-327-4744 and referencing agency case 22-3956 or NamUs ID UP98225.
A DNASolves crowdfund has been created to raise funds for the remaining casework costs. Anyone can contribute here. We are grateful for your support.
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.