DNA Advancements Identify Suspected Homicide Victim, 31 Years after Remains Found in Indiana

Suspected Homicide Victim Identified 31 Years after Human Remains Found in Indiana

Updated on: September 3, 2024

Discovery of Human Remains in 1993:

Over three decades after the chilling discovery of human remains in a field near the Interstate 65, south of Indianapolis, the identity of the suspected homicide victim has finally been confirmed. The remains uncovered by children have been identified as Michael Benjamin Davis, a South Carolina native who mysteriously vanished in the late ’80s, according to official statements from the Johnson County coroner’s office. The area where the remains were found has since transformed into a golf course in Greenwood, Indiana.

The remains were sent to the University of North Texas where an analysis confirmed the person to have been a male under 30 years old, with a height approximately between 4ft 10in and 5ft 4in. Despite the tireless efforts made by law enforcement officers, no positive identification could be made, and the case eventually went cold due to lack of leads.

Advancements in DNA Testing and Genealogy Break The Cold Case:

Now, 31 years later, advancements in DNA testing and genealogy have played a critical role in unveiling the identity of the remains. DNA samples from the remains were tested and matched, resulting in closure to a mystery that hung unresolved for over three decades. “Although this case has long been suspected of having been a homicide, the cause and manner of death have been ruled undetermined unless more information is discovered,” a statement from the coroner’s office read.

Michael Benjamin Davis was born in 1965 in Richland County, South Carolina, and would have been in his mid-20s during the estimated time of his death. Davis’ family was reportedly out of contact with him since the late 1980s. Plans have been made for Davis’ family to travel to Indiana to claim the remains, and to speak to media this Thursday.

The Impact of Modern Science in Solving Cold Cases:

It is noteworthy how modern science can aid in dusting off old files and shine a light on long-forgotten cases. The identification of Michael Benjamin Davis is a prime example of the power of genetic genealogy and the diligent work of forensic scientists.

As this cold case sees some resolution, it may serve as a glimmer of hope for other unsolved cases awaiting their turn to be brought to closure. Although it does not necessarily bring closure to what exactly happened to Davis, it does bring a sense of conclusion to part of his story, a story that had been on hold for over three decades.

-CBS Interactive Inc, 2024