Genetic Genealogy This Month – September 2021: Forensic Breakthroughs

In September 2021, forensic genetic genealogy made remarkable strides, helping solve or advance multiple cold cases. The following cases illustrate how cutting‑edge DNADNA, or Deoxyribonucleic Acid, is the genetic material found in cells, composed of a double helix structure. It serves as the genetic blueprint for all living organisms. Read Full Definition technology is transforming forensic investigations and providing new leads in long‑unsolved mysteries.

Genetic Genealogy Helps ID Man Found in Wilderness:

In August 2014 a backpacker was hours into a hike through the Welcome Creek Wilderness, above Bidwell Gulch, when he came across human skeletal remains. The Granite County Sheriff was promptly notified and began an investigation. Investigators determined the remains most likely belonged to a white male, around age 30 to 45 and 6’ 0” at the time of his death. Granite County John Doe had hiking gear surrounding him where he was found. Included amongst his belongs were Dramamine tablets, dated between 2011-2013, Rocky Snake size 10/11 boots, a SOG sheath knife, and a CVS Pharmacy medication bottle. There were few other clues available. A search of dental records did not return a match. Likewise, an STR profile built from the skeletal remains did not return a match in CODIS.

In 2021, the Granite County Sheriff’s Office, assisted by the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office partnered with Othram, Inc. to help identify Granite County John Doe or his next of kin. Othram used Forensic-Grade Genome A genome is the complete set of an organism's genetic material, while genomics is the study of genomes, investigating their evolution, structure, and function. Read Full Definition Sequencing to build a genealogical profile of the unknown man. After returning investigative leads back to law enforcement, the Montana State Crime Lab conducted DNA testing of close family to confirm that Granite County John Doe’s identity was in fact David Jon Milek. David was originally from Dallas, Texas. He was 32 years of age, when he was last seen in 2011 by his family.

Cause of deathThe cause of death refers to the specific injury, disease, or underlying condition that directly leads to an individual's demise. It is a critical determination made by medical professionals, such as Medical Examiners or Coroners, Read Full Definition remains unclear and the investigation continues. Anyone with information that might aid the investigation is encouraged to contact the Granite County Sheriff’s Office at (406) 859-3251. Please refer to case number 214CR0001677. This case was funded in part by DNASolves crowdfunding and a generous contribution by Audiochuck. We are grateful to Audiochuck and everyone else that helped fund the work necessary to reconnect David Milek back to family.

Source: DNASolves/Othram.