Cold Case Solved: DNA Genealogy IDs Remains
- A cold case dating back to 1986 has been solved in Yavapai County, Arizona, thanks to advances in forensic science and genealogy DNA testing. The skeletal remains, discovered...
- Hikers stumbled upon the remains in December 1986,behind a cafe.
- Customary forensic methods yielded little information at the time.
After nearly four decades, the 1986 homicide of Arthur Humphrey in Arizona is solved, thanks to innovative DNA genealogy.Skeletal remains, discovered in Yavapai County, were linked to Humphrey using advanced forensic techniques and familial DNA connections. the secondary_keyword, forensic genealogy, proved crucial in identifying the victim and unraveling the cold case. News Directory 3 brings you the story of how investigators collaborated with Othram, a specialized lab, to analyze DNA, build a profile, and ultimately, identify Humphrey. Discover how community involvement and database searches helped bridge the gap in this decades-old mystery.Uncover the next steps in the investigation and the future of cold case resolutions.
Arizona Cold Case Solved: DNA & Genealogy Identify 1986 homicide Victim
Updated May 31, 2025
A cold case dating back to 1986 has been solved in Yavapai County, Arizona, thanks to advances in forensic science and genealogy DNA testing. The skeletal remains, discovered near Cordes Junction, have been identified as those of Arthur Humphrey, bringing closure to a decades-old mystery.
Hikers stumbled upon the remains in December 1986,behind a cafe. Examination revealed the victim was a male who had been murdered, suffering two skull fractures from blunt force trauma. Clothing found with the body included white socks, blue pants, a leather belt, a plaid western shirt, and a t-shirt with a shark logo and a florida address.
Customary forensic methods yielded little information at the time. In 2024, the Yavapai County Medical Examiner’s Office partnered with Othram, a forensic genealogy lab, to employ cutting-edge DNA testing. Othram extracted DNA from the bones and created a thorough DNA profile using forensic-grade genome sequencing.
The profile was then used by Othram’s in-house forensic genetic genealogy team to identify potential relatives, leading to Arthur Humphrey. othram’s KinSNP Rapid Relationship Testing confirmed a biological relationship using a DNA sample from a possible relative.
Born Dec.9,1939,Humphrey would have been about 47 years old at the time of his death. The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the case as a homicide.
Genetic genealogy has become a powerful tool for solving cold cases. By comparing DNA samples to public genealogical databases, investigators can trace familial connections and identify previously unknown victims and suspects. Several high-profile cases, including the Golden Gate Killer and the “Boy in a Box,” have been solved using this method.
In the Humphrey case, DNA was uploaded to genealogy databases, and distant relatives were quickly identified.This new information allowed investigators to piece together Humphrey’s last known whereabouts and the circumstances surrounding his disappearance.
Community involvement also played a key role in the identification process. Local volunteers, genealogists, and amateur sleuths contributed to the effort. Funding for the advanced DNA testing and forensic genetic genealogy was provided by NamUs, a national program that assists in the examination of missing, unidentified, and unclaimed persons cases.
What’s next
the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office will continue its investigation into Humphrey’s death, seeking to uncover the circumstances surrounding his homicide and bring those responsible to justice. The triumphant identification highlights the growing importance of forensic genealogy in resolving cold cases.