Suspected Homicide Victim Identified 31 Years after Human Remains Found in Indiana
Updated on: September 3, 2024
Discovery of Human Remains in 1993:
Over three decades after the chilling discovery of human remains in a field near the Interstate 65, south of Indianapolis, the identity of the suspected homicide victim has finally been confirmed. The remains uncovered by children have been identified as Michael Benjamin Davis, a South Carolina native who mysteriously vanished in the late ’80s, according to official statements from the Johnson County coroner’s office. The area where the remains were found has since transformed into a golf course in Greenwood, Indiana.
The remains were sent to the University of North Texas where an analysis confirmed the person to have been a male under 30 years old, with a height approximately between 4ft 10in and 5ft 4in. Despite the tireless efforts made by law enforcement officers, no positive identification could be made, and the case eventually went cold due to lack of leads.
Advancements in DNA Testing and Genealogy Break The Cold Case:
Now, 31 years later, advancements in DNA testing and genealogy have played a critical role in unveiling the identity of the remains. DNA samples from the remains were tested and matched, resulting in closure to a mystery that hung unresolved for over three decades. “Although this case has long been suspected of having been a homicide, the cause and manner of death have been ruled undetermined unless more information is discovered,” a statement from the coroner’s office read.
Michael Benjamin Davis was born in 1965 in Richland County, South Carolina, and would have been in his mid-20s during the estimated time of his death. Davis’ family was reportedly out of contact with him since the late 1980s. Plans have been made for Davis’ family to travel to Indiana to claim the remains, and to speak to media this Thursday.
The Impact of Modern Science in Solving Cold Cases:
It is noteworthy how modern science can aid in dusting off old files and shine a light on long-forgotten cases. The identification of Michael Benjamin Davis is a prime example of the power of genetic genealogy and the diligent work of forensic scientists.
As this cold case sees some resolution, it may serve as a glimmer of hope for other unsolved cases awaiting their turn to be brought to closure. Although it does not necessarily bring closure to what exactly happened to Davis, it does bring a sense of conclusion to part of his story, a story that had been on hold for over three decades.
-CBS Interactive Inc, 2024
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
