Summary
In October 2021, the skeletal remains of an unidentified individual were found in a wooded area near the 8700 block of Troost Avenue in Kansas City, Missouri after an incarcerated individual told officials they saw a skull at the location. Several law enforcement agencies responded, including the Kansas City Police Department and the Jackson County Medical Examiner's Office to begin collecting evidence as part of their investigation. Investigators found a skull and a jawbone but no other way to identify the remains. The Jackson County Medical Examiner's Office determined the skull belonged to an adult, likely older than 50.
Despite a lengthy investigation, the person could not be identified and became known as Jackson County John Doe (2021). Details of the case were entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) as UP91507.
In 2023, the Jackson County Medical Examiner's Office submitted forensic evidence to Othram in The Woodlands, Texas to determine if advanced DNA testing could help identify the person. 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 person. Othram's in-house forensic genetic genealogy team used the profile in a forensic 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 person. Reference DNA samples were collected from a relative and compared to the DNA profile of the unidentified person. This investigation led to the positive identification of the person, who is now known to be Thomas Lee Baird, born January 4, 1962.
Individuals who have taken a consumer DNA test can aid ongoing forensic investigations by joining the DNASolves database. Expanding the number of available DNA profiles 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 Thomas Baird represents the 24th 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.