Hiroshima Bomb Victim DNA Test – Remains Identified
Hiroshima to Undertake DNA Profiling of Atomic Bomb Victims’ Remains
Hiroshima City officials announced plans to conduct DNA profiling on unclaimed remains held at the Atomic Bomb Memorial Mound, marking the first such effort for victims of the August 6, 1945, atomic bombing.
First-Ever DNA Testing for 1945 Bombing Victims
The initiative follows a request from potential relatives in May 2024 and the subsequent finding of hair within an urn containing remains. previously, DNA analysis was considered impractical due to the extensive burning suffered by many victims.
Approximately 70,000 victims’ ashes are stored in the vault beneath the Atomic Bomb Memorial Mound in hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Of these, the identities of 812 individuals are known, but their remains remain unclaimed.
Collaboration with Kanagawa Dental university
Hiroshima City intends to collaborate with Kanagawa Dental University in Kanagawa Prefecture to perform the DNA analysis using the recovered hair sample. The university is a recognized institution for forensic dental and DNA analysis.
City officials indicated a willingness to continue similar efforts if the initial analysis proves prosperous in identifying remains after 80 years. This could offer closure to families still seeking information about loved ones lost in the bombing.