The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office has finally identified the body of a man who was the victim of a homicide 37 years ago. The body, which was found partially submerged in Crater Lake near FM 3083 and Exxon Rd. in the Conroe area, has remained unidentified since its discovery on August 3, 1986. However, recent advancements in DNA technology have allowed investigators to determine the man’s identity.

Discovery of the Body

In the summer of 1986, several individuals visiting Crater Lake made a shocking discovery when they spotted a body in the water. Law enforcement authorities were immediately notified, and deputies promptly arrived at the scene. The body, which was weighted down with two cement cinder blocks attached to an electrical cord, was removed from the water for further examination.

Autopsy Findings and Description

An autopsy conducted on the unidentified man revealed that he had succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds. Despite extensive investigations, the man’s identity remained a mystery for over three decades. Authorities described him as a young adult, aged between 20 and 30 years old, standing at approximately five feet, six inches tall and weighing around 133 pounds. He had a slight build, collar-length reddish-brown hair, decaying teeth, and several tattoos, including a small devil with a painted tail on his left lower arm, the name “Liz” on his left upper arm, and the word “Baby Dawn” on his right upper arm. The man also had a pierced left ear lobe. He was found wearing men’s blue denim jeans with a waist size of 30 and a length of 31, a brown short-sleeve shirt, and men’s white athletic socks.

Exhumation and DNA Analysis

In a persistent effort to identify the victim, the remains were exhumed in 2015 by the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Cold Case Detectives. The purpose was to obtain DNA samples for entry into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), a comprehensive DNA database used by local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Unfortunately, this initial attempt failed to produce any identification.

However, advancements in DNA technology have paved the way for a breakthrough in the case. In May 2023, the Cold Case Detectives decided to exhume the remains once again, this time to obtain additional DNA for Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG). The remains were transported to Othram Lab in The Woodlands, where scientists successfully extracted more DNA and began conducting a genealogy assessment. Through this process, a potential family member was identified in California, prompting local law enforcement to contact them.

Identification Confirmed

Following contact with the family member, a voluntary DNA sample was obtained and submitted to Othram Lab for analysis. In October 2023, Othram Lab issued a conclusive report confirming the familial match between the unknown human remains and the family member in California. The body has now been identified as belonging to Clarence Lynn Wilson, who was born on February 18, 1952, and had a last known address in Texas City.

Ongoing Homicide Investigation

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Cold Case Squad is currently continuing its investigation into the homicide of Clarence Lynn Wilson. If you have any information or knew Wilson, please contact the authorities at 936-760-5820 or provide anonymous tips to Multi-County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-392-STOP [7867]. Any information, no matter how small, may prove vital in bringing justice to the victim and his family.