Forty-three years after the skeletal remains of a man were discovered in a wooded area, the Volusia Sheriff’s Office (VSO) and FHD Forensics are making a renewed plea to the public to help finally give “John Doe” his name back.
The man, now known as NamUs UP927, was found on March 12, 1982, by two boys who were camping in the Ormond Beach area. His death was immediately considered suspicious, as the remains were discovered with no clothing, jewelry, or personal effects whatsoever.
A Glimpse into His Past: French-Canadian Ties and Distant Ancestors
Investigators have built a detailed profile of the unidentified man, describing him as a White male, approximately 5’7” tall and 150 lbs. He was estimated to be 35 to 50 years old at the time of his death, suggesting he was likely born between 1935 and 1947.
Advanced DNA analysis has provided critical clues to his background, revealing a strong French Canadian heritage. Further genetic admixture shows that over 50% of his ancestral ties are Irish, Scottish, and English.
The genetic mapping suggests he may have roots not only in Ontario and Quebec but also has genetic ties to distant matches in Massachusetts, Illinois, and Michigan.
READ: Florida Woman Found Dead In Her Home, Killed In Apparent Violent Dog Attack
Genealogy and the Push for Identification
Despite 18 months of intensive research and related DNA testing, the identified common ancestors remain very distant, dating back to the 1750s. To break through this genealogical wall, a non-profit organization, Genealogy For Justice, has stepped in.
In memory of Volusia County residents and murder victims Dean and Tina Linn Clouse, the organization is sponsoring a reference DNA testing program for the descendants of those distant 18th-century ancestors. The goal is to narrow the search and find a closer genetic match that can lead to his identity.
Authorities have also released AI-enhanced approximations of what the man may have looked like, generated from his original, decades-old clay sculpture.
VSO is urging anyone with information—no matter how small or insignificant it may seem—to come forward and help them close this cold case.
If you have information on this John Doe, please email the Cold Case Unit at ColdCaseUnitTips@volusiasheriff.gov.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
