In a remarkable breakthrough, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), in collaboration with Othram, has successfully identified the skeletal remains of the young girl known as “Elk Valley Jane Doe” nearly four decades after her body was discovered. The remains were found in Campbell County, Tennessee, in 1985. They have been positively identified as 15-year-old Tracy Sue Walker. She went missing from Lafayette, Indiana, in 1978. This long-awaited identification was made possible through advanced forensic techniques. Genealogical research also contributed to bringing some closure to a case that spanned 37 years.
Discovery of Elk Valley Jane Doe
In April 1985, skeletal remains were discovered in the Big Wheel Gap area of Elk Valley, Campbell County. Forensic anthropologists initially determined that the remains belonged to a white female, aged approximately 10 to 15 years old. Despite extensive efforts, investigators were unable to determine her identity at the time. She became known as “Baby Girl.” In 2007, a DNA sample from the remains was submitted to the University of North Texas Center for Human Identification (UNTCHI). UNTCHI developed a DNA profile and entered it into the CODIS database. It was also entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) under the listing UP1577. Despite this, her identity remained a mystery for years.
The Role of Othram and Forensic Breakthroughs
In 2013, TBI agents revisited the case in hopes of generating new leads. However, it would take nearly another decade for significant progress. In 2022, TBI collaborated with the University of Tennessee Anthropology Department and Othram, a cutting-edge forensic laboratory specializing in challenging cases involving degraded human remains. Previous attempts to test the skeletal remains had failed due to their age and degradation, but Othram’s use of Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing and advanced genome filtering techniques allowed for the successful extraction of viable DNA from the remains.
Othram scientists produced a genealogical profile for the unknown girl, leading them to a potential relative living in Indiana. Based on this lead, a TBI intelligence analyst located relatives in Lafayette, Indiana. Upon contacting the family, it was confirmed that a family member, Tracy Sue Walker, had gone missing from Lafayette in 1978. Further familial DNA samples from possible siblings were obtained and submitted to the TBI Crime Lab for comparison.
Confirmation of Tracy Sue Walker’s Identity
In August 2022, the University of North Texas Center for Human Identification confirmed that “Elk Valley Jane Doe” was indeed Tracy Sue Walker, born June 2, 1963. Tracy went missing in 1978, leaving her family searching for answers for more than four decades. The identification of Tracy Sue Walker marks a significant milestone in this long-standing cold case, but many questions still remain.
Ongoing Investigation and Appeal for Public Assistance
While Tracy’s identity has been confirmed, TBI Special Agents are now seeking additional information regarding the circumstances surrounding her death. How Tracy ended up in Campbell County, Tennessee, remains unclear. Investigators are hopeful that members of the public may hold critical pieces of information. These pieces could help unravel the mystery. The TBI is appealing to anyone with knowledge of Tracy Sue Walker’s whereabouts prior to her death to come forward. They also want anyone who may have known the individuals she was with to come forward.
A Collaborative Effort for Justice
This case highlights the power of forensic advancements, particularly the role of genetic genealogy and collaborative efforts between forensic scientists, law enforcement, and genealogical researchers. Funding for the casework was provided by Carla Davis, who also led the genealogical research efforts that ultimately identified Tracy. Through the work of organizations like Othram, justice for victims and their families is becoming increasingly possible. This is supported by the Lafayette, Indiana Police Department. Justice is becoming increasingly possible even decades after the fact.
Conclusion
The identification of Tracy Sue Walker nearly 40 years after her disappearance is significant. It underscores the critical importance of forensic innovation in solving cold cases. This remarkable achievement brings a sense of closure to her family. It also reignites efforts to uncover the truth behind her tragic death. The case continues as investigators work to piece together the events that led to her untimely demise.
