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 MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
