Ward Raymond Thomas : “Missing Ohio Man Identified After 27 Years”

Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Skull Found in Scioto River identified as Ohio Man Missing Since 1972

In a breakthrough discovery, a skull found in the Scioto River 27 years ago has been identified using genetic genealogy as the remains of an Ohio man who vanished in 1972. The DNA Doe Project, in collaboration with the Ross County Office of the Coroner, successfully identified the skeletal remains as belonging to Ward Raymond Thomas of Muskingum County.

A Long-Awaited Discovery

Ward Thomas, who was 54 years old at the time of his disappearance, went missing from a Veteran’s Medical Facility in Chillicothe in 1972. It wasn’t until 24 years later that his skull was discovered in the Scioto River. In 2022, investigators from the Ross County coroner’s office turned to the DNA Doe Project to help uncover the man’s identity. Thanks to a grant obtained by the coroner’s office, a DNA profile was developed from a bone sample taken from the skull.

Connecting the Dots

A team of volunteer investigators began working on identifying the remains in November 2023. In a remarkable turn of events, they were able to connect a few second and third cousins in a family tree, ultimately leading them to Thomas’ branch. The identification was made on Thanksgiving Day, adding a poignant layer of meaning to the discovery.

Julie Bracker, the team leader, expressed gratitude for being able to provide closure and locate older newspaper articles about Thomas’ disappearance. She also highlighted the importance of distant relatives who uploaded their DNA data to GEDmatch.com, contributing to the successful identification.

Genetic Genealogy and Law Enforcement

Genetic genealogy combines DNA test results with traditional genealogical methods to determine genetic relationships between individuals. The investigative work done by the DNA Doe Project generates leads that are shared with law enforcement and coroner offices. Confirmation of these leads can take time, depending on the availability of dental records and DNA from close family members.

Conclusion

The identification of Ward Raymond Thomas after decades of uncertainty sheds light on the power of genetic genealogy in solving cold cases and bringing closure to families. The collaborative efforts between the DNA Doe Project and the Ross County coroner’s office exemplify the dedication and perseverance required in unraveling mysteries and honoring the memory of the missing.

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