ALGONQUIN PARK HUMAN REMAINS IDENTIFIED MORE THAN FOUR DECADES LATER, Remains Identified with Investigative Genetic Genealogy
ALGONQUIN PARK HUMAN REMAINS IDENTIFIED MORE THAN FOUR DECADES LATER
Remains Identified with Investigative Genetic Genealogy
(ORILLIA, ON) - Human remains discovered in 1980 have now been identified through the use of investigative genetic genealogy (IGG).
It was determined that the deceased was a white male estimated to be between 18 and 21 years of age at the time of his death. Foul play was not suspected in his death.
It was initially estimated that the male had died sometime between July 1, 1971, and spring 1978. Further investigation narrowed the estimated time of death to approximately two years before the remains were discovered. Despite comparing the remains to several missing persons reports and issuing public appeals, the case remained unsolved.
On Thursday, March 23, 1995, additional human remains were discovered along the same trail. A jawbone located along the trail was examined by the OFPS and confirmed to belong to the human remains found in 1980. Although further searches were conducted, no additional remains or items were found.
In 2017, the OPP unveiled a three-dimensional clay facial reconstruction created by the OPP forensic artist. This generated dozens of tips, but despite investigation of the leads brought forward, none led to a confirmed identity.
The investigation continued and, in April 2022, the male’s DNA was submitted to the DNA Doe Project for IGG analysis in an attempt to determine his identity through family members. By September 2023, the presumptive identity was verified and used by CIB detectives to locate living family members. DNA from family members was used to confirm the male’s identity and the family was notified.
After more than four decades, the deceased has finally been identified as Eric (Ricky) SINGER of Cleveland, Ohio. Ricky had last been seen at his parents’ residence in Berea, Ohio, on Thursday, October 4, 1973.
“Up until this time, I never felt sad because it has been such a long time and you get numb to it. This cuts through. I’m honoured, I’m humbled, I’m grateful. He was eventually found. He was identified and we were able to put him to rest and put ourselves to rest.”
- Merry SINGER, Ricky’s younger sister