The remains, discovered on November 3, 1989, on Walcutt Road in western Franklin County, are those of Ernest Emerson Carter, who was born in 1923. Little is currently known about the circumstances of his life or death.
”Solving a cold case takes teamwork, technology, and tenacity,” said Attorney General Yost.
“This partnership has a direct impact on so many and brings real results to loved ones.”
Coroner Overmire echoed that sentiment, stating, “We believe each person is worthy of dignity and respect. Our patients can no longer advocate for themselves, so we must on their behalf. We utilized science to solve a mystery and are extremely proud of the compassionate staff and partners who made this possible.”
How the Case Was Solved
Investigators from the Coroner’s office and the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) have long worked on this case.
The remains were first submitted to BCI’s Project LINK in 2000, but no leads were generated.
Last year, The Porchlight Project, a non-profit that funds forensic genealogy, stepped in. They paid for advanced DNA testing by Othram, a Texas-based forensics technology company.
Genealogists, working with BCI’s Criminal Intelligence Unit, built a family tree that led to a male relative. This relative’s DNA confirmed the remains belong to Mr. Carter.
Val Bogart, genetic genealogist for The Porchlight Project, expressed gratitude for the collaboration, stating, “I am hopeful the identification of Mr. Carter brings long-awaited answers and a step toward closure for all involved.”