Body Found in Kentucky Lake Identified as FBI-Wanted Man After 25 Years

The remains of a body, bound by tire chains, discovered at the bottom of a Kentucky lake almost 25 years ago, have finally been identified as Roger Dale Parham, a man wanted by the FBI. Kentucky State Police announced that advanced DNA technology was used to determine the identity of the remains.

On May 6, 1999, two fishermen found Parham’s body in Lake Barkley, which spans Livingston County, Lyon County, and Trigg County in southwest Kentucky, extending into northern Tennessee. The body was wrapped in heavy tire chains and anchored with a hydraulic jack.

Initial investigations were unable to identify the individual using traditional investigative techniques. However, after exhuming the body in 2016, authorities continued their efforts to identify the victim. Despite using DNA technology, dental examinations, forensic pathology, and other advanced forensic testing, the body remained unidentified.

Earlier this year, a relative of the unidentified person was located, leading to a breakthrough in the case. Kentucky State Police, in collaboration with NamUs and Othram Inc., a private forensic lab specializing in forensic genealogy, utilized advanced genealogy DNA testing to finally identify the victim as Roger Dale Parham.

Awaiting Trial and Disappearance

Investigators discovered that in 1999, Parham was living in Fort Smith, Arkansas, where he awaited trial for various criminal charges. However, in March of that year, Parham disappeared, suspected of fleeing the area to evade prosecution.

Although the cause of Parham’s death remains undetermined, the case is now being treated as a homicide. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding his death.

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on Twitter @nataliealund.