WILMINGTON, DE — The Wilmington Police Department‘s Cold Case Unit is seeking the public’s help in identifying a deceased individual discovered nearly 45 years ago and determining the circumstances surrounding his death.
On April 8, 1978, authorities responded to a landfill on the 600 block of Terminal Avenue, where they located the remains of a male subject. Investigators estimate that the individual, believed to be between 17 and 25 years old at the time of death, may have been at the site for as long as seven years before his discovery.
Further forensic examination revealed the man had a severe pelvic deformity that likely caused a pronounced limp on his right side, possibly requiring him to use crutches or a cane. Clothing found with the remains included a bleached blue, long-sleeved “Kent-Collection By Arrow” shirt, bleached Levi’s pants (size 32), and undershorts.
The Cold Case Unit has teamed up with Moxxy Forensic Investigations to uncover more about the case. Moxxy’s research suggests the individual likely had African American ancestry and familial ties to Georgetown County, South Carolina, and Delaware. Additionally, surnames connected to the man’s ancestry may include Harris, Ray, Rodgers, and Dukes.
A new facial reconstruction, created by a forensic artist with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, offers an approximation of what the individual might have looked like before his death.
Investigators urge anyone who may recognize this individual, believe he could be a relative, or have information about his identity or cause of death to come forward. Contact Investigator Steven Rizzo at (302) 576-3937 or Detective Devon Jones at (302) 576-3631.
Relatives seeking to assist investigators are also encouraged to reach out to Olivia McCarter of Moxxy Forensic Investigations at olivia@moxxyforensics.com or visit moxxyforensics.com for further details.
The Wilmington Police Department states that it remains committed to resolving this decades-old mystery and bringing closure to the case.
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