WAWA – According to OPP Northeast Region, OPP has concluded a seven-year death investigation using investigative genetic genealogy (IGG). OPP Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) detectives submitted the DNA to the DNA Doe Project to determine the identity of the remains found on a cliff overlooking Montreal River Harbour approximately an hour north of Sault Ste. Marie.
OPP Northeast Region said on July 30, 2017, a hiker found human remains on a cliff overlooking Montreal River Harbour, which began an investigation under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB).
After an extensive search of the area, police found clothing, Canadian currency, and a cardboard box which housed a hunting rifle were located at the scene and examined.
The Ontario Forensic Pathology Service (OFPS) determined that the human remains were of a male, approximately 45 to 65 years old.
No foul play was suspected in his death.
OPP stated they didn’t know how the individual arrived at Montreal River Harbour but they believed the individual was hitchhiking at the time.
In Sept. 2023, the identity was verified by the IGG and used to locate living family members. A family member's DNA was used to confirm the male's identity and the family was notified of the results.
The identity of the deceased male will not be shared publicly to respect the family's wishes.
The OPP thanked the public and the media for their interest in the investigation and tips provided over the last seven years.
"Thanks to the investigative efforts and support from many OPP units, the OCC/OFPS and the DNA Doe Project, a family has finally received answers about their loved one," said Daniel Nadeau, Acting Detective Superintendent, Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy Implementation Team, OPP CIB said,
“This case is another example of how technological advancements, in this instance the use of investigative genetic genealogy, can help police with historic cases. We look forward to being able to provide more families with answers in the future, as we continue to implement this technique into our investigations,"
