Remains Found in Galax, Virginia Identified as Missing Boy

CARROLL COUNTY, Va. (WDBJ/Gray News) – The remains discovered in Galax, Virginia, in 2022 have finally been identified as those of 5-year-old Logan Bowman. The young boy had gone missing from Grayson County in 2003, and the recent revelation brings closure to a long-standing mystery.

Logan Bowman was reported missing in January 2003, leaving his family devastated and desperate for answers. Now, almost two decades later, the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed the heartbreaking news of his fate.

At the time of Logan’s disappearance, his biological mother, Cynthia Davis, and her then-boyfriend, Dennis Schermerhorn, were charged by Grayson County authorities. Now, with the identification of Logan’s remains, it is anticipated that new charges will be brought against them.

The discovery of Logan’s body was made on September 6, 2022, when the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office responded to the wooded area of Iron Ridge Road in Galax. The remains, which had been there for an extended period of time, were found during the investigation.

To identify the remains, the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office enlisted the help of Othram, a private company based in Texas that specializes in forensic-grade genome sequencing and forensic genetic genealogy. Through their expertise, a full DNA profile was developed, enabling the use of forensic genetic genealogy and two direct DNA comparisons with family members to positively identify Logan.

The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude for the assistance provided by multiple state and federal agencies throughout the investigation. Their collaborative efforts have helped solve the long-standing mystery surrounding Logan Bowman’s disappearance.

Background on Logan Bowman’s Disappearance

Logan Bowman went missing in January 2003, sending shockwaves through the community and leaving his family in anguish. The young boy’s disappearance prompted a thorough investigation by Grayson County authorities, leading to charges against his biological mother, Cynthia Davis, and her then-boyfriend, Dennis Schermerhorn.

The circumstances surrounding Logan’s disappearance remained a mystery for nearly two decades until the recent discovery of his remains in Galax, Virginia. It is hoped that the identification of his body will bring some closure to his grieving family.

The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with Othram, utilized advanced forensic techniques to develop a full DNA profile from the remains. This breakthrough allowed investigators to employ forensic genetic genealogy, ultimately leading to the positive identification of Logan Bowman.

Continued Investigation and Anticipated Charges

With the identification of Logan’s remains, authorities are now preparing to bring new charges against his biological mother, Cynthia Davis, and her former boyfriend, Dennis Schermerhorn. The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, determined to seek justice for Logan, will work closely with Grayson County authorities to ensure that the responsible parties are held accountable.

The discovery of Logan’s remains has reignited the investigation into his disappearance, shedding new light on the circumstances surrounding his tragic fate. The collaborative efforts of multiple state and federal agencies will play a crucial role in unraveling the truth and providing closure to the long-standing case.

The Role of Othram in Identifying Logan Bowman

The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office sought the expertise of Othram, a leading private company based in Texas specializing in forensic-grade genome sequencing and forensic genetic genealogy. Othram’s advanced DNA analysis techniques allowed investigators to develop a comprehensive DNA profile from the remains found in Galax, Virginia.

By employing forensic genetic genealogy and conducting direct DNA comparisons with family members, Othram played a pivotal role in confirming the identity of Logan Bowman. Their cutting-edge technology and collaboration with law enforcement agencies have brought long-awaited answers to Logan’s family.

Gratitude Towards Collaborating Agencies

The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office expressed sincere gratitude to the numerous state and federal agencies that assisted in the investigation of Logan Bowman’s disappearance. The collaborative efforts of these dedicated professionals have been instrumental in uncovering the truth and providing closure to Logan’s grieving family.

The combined expertise and resources of these agencies have demonstrated the power of teamwork and the commitment to justice. Their unwavering dedication to this case has ensured that Logan’s memory will be honored by holding those responsible accountable for their actions.