Helen Renee Groomes : “DNA Evidence Identifies Body as Missing Iowa Girl”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. DNA evidence identification Missouri 1978
2. Missing Iowa girl DNA evidence

A 15-year-old girl from Iowa, Helen Renee Groomes, who disappeared in 1977, has finally been identified after 46 years. Her body was found in the Mississippi River in Missouri in 1978. Thanks to DNA evidence and scientific investigation, authorities in Lincoln County, Missouri, were able to confirm her identity. Previously known as “Lincoln County Jane Doe,” Helen’s body was buried in Troy, Missouri. The case was reopened in October, leading to the discovery of new evidence that ultimately led to the reunion of Helen with her family. The Wapello County Sheriff’s Office in Iowa has now opened a new investigation into her death.

Discovery of Body in the Mississippi River

In a remote area near Elsberry, Missouri, a hunter stumbled upon a shocking discovery forty-six years ago. The body of a young girl, later determined to be 15-year-old Helen Renee Groomes from Ottumwa, Iowa, was found in the murky waters of the Mississippi River. At the time, little did anyone know that this tragic incident would remain a mystery for decades to come.

Initial Investigation and Autopsy Findings

Upon examination of the body, authorities in Lincoln County, Missouri, faced a perplexing challenge. With only a cat’s eye ring and a barely legible tattoo on the victim’s arm as clues, the case was shrouded in uncertainty. The autopsy results suggested that the victim was a woman aged 30 to 40, leaving investigators with more questions than answers. The cause of death was classified as “undetermined,” adding to the enigma surrounding the case.

Unveiling the Truth Through DNA Evidence

Fast forward to the present day, Coroner Dan Heavin made a groundbreaking decision to exhume the body in hopes of finally unraveling the mystery of Lincoln County Jane Doe. With advancements in scientific technology, DNA analysis and forensic genome sequencing played a pivotal role in identifying the victim as Helen Renee Groomes. This significant breakthrough brought closure to a case that had haunted the community for over four decades.

Reuniting with Family

Thanks to the tireless efforts of the coroner’s office and the assistance of Othram Inc., Kevin Groomes, Helen’s brother, was finally reunited with his long-lost sister. In a heart-wrenching revelation, Kevin shared that Helen had gone missing in 1977, leaving a void in their family that lasted for years. The emotional reunion and closure provided by the identification of Helen’s remains brought a sense of peace to her loved ones.

New Investigation in Iowa

Following the identification of Helen Groomes, the Wapello County Sheriff’s Office in Iowa has launched a new investigation into her death. With fresh leads and a renewed sense of determination, authorities are committed to uncovering the truth behind this tragic loss. The search for justice continues as the story of Helen Renee Groomes takes a new turn, shedding light on a decades-old mystery.