1. Woman’s remains found in ditch near Illinois highway
2. Woman’s remains identified after 47 years.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Authorities have finally identified the remains of a young Black woman found near Seneca, Illinois as JoAnn “Vickie” Smith, an adopted woman from Ohio. The case, which remained unsolved for over 47 years, saw a breakthrough through the use of DNA and forensics.
History of the Case
The body, previously known as Jane Seneca Doe, was discovered in a ditch alongside US Highway 6 with a gunshot wound to the head. Despite extensive efforts, her identity remained a mystery for decades. The Grundy County Coroner’s Office initiated a renewed quest to confirm her identity in late 2017, leading to the exhumation of her remains from an unmarked grave in December 2018.
The DNA Doe Project
The breakthrough in identifying JoAnn “Vickie” Smith came through the efforts of the DNA Doe Project, a team of expert genetic genealogists. Despite initial unsuccessful DNA testing, the organization was able to construct a family tree to narrow down the search. The complex process of identifying African-American Jane and John Does was highlighted, as they are often more challenging to identify due to underrepresentation in public databases.
The Identification Process
The identification of JoAnn “Vickie” Smith took over four years of dedicated work. The DNA Doe Project team was able to locate a branch of her family tree with three sisters, one of whom turned out to be her birth mother. This crucial discovery led investigators to find her original birth certificate from the Cincinnati Health Department Vital Records and adoption records from Hamilton County (Ohio) Probate Court.
Final Thoughts
With the positive identification of JoAnn “Vickie” Smith, a long-standing mystery has been solved. The determination and expertise of the DNA Doe Project played a vital role in bringing closure to this case after nearly five decades. This story serves as a reminder of the importance of ongoing efforts to identify and bring justice to unidentified individuals.
As the investigation continues, more details may emerge, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding JoAnn “Vickie” Smith’s tragic death. This developing story reinforces the significance of forensic advancements in solving cold cases and bringing closure to families of missing persons.
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– Woman’s remains found in ditch near Illinois highway
– Illinois highway woman’s remains found in ditch.
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