Summary
In 2007, the Codiac Regional Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) began an investigation after an adult male was found deceased in the Moncton area of New Brunswick. Investigators determined that no foul play was involved. Despite extensive investigative efforts were over the years, the man remained unidentified.
DNA and fingerprint records were compared with databases in Canada and internationally, but no matches were found.
In 2026, investigators with the RCMP, submitted remains to Othram's laboratory in The Woodlands, Texas for analysis. At Othram, scientists successfully developed a DNA extract from the submitted evidence and used Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing® to generate a comprehensive SNP profile suitable for forensic genetic genealogy.
The resulting profile was then provided to law enforcement to support a forensic genetic genealogy search led by the Toronto Police Service, which ultimately generated investigative leads that contributed to the identification.
Using these leads, investigators conducted a follow-up investigation that resulted in the identification of the man as William Dean "Billy" Mackay. Mackay's family, who had not seen him in more than twenty years, was notified about his identification.
This development represents a significant breakthrough in a case that remained unresolved for 19 years, demonstrating the impact of advanced forensic DNA technology in helping investigators resolve long-standing cases.
This is the first publicly announced case in the Province of Brunswick where officials leveraged Othram's identity inference pipeline. Learn about other cases 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.