KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – Thanks to a cold case initiative, the mystery surrounding human remains found in Knoxville, Tennessee, back in 2020 has finally been solved, thanks to Othram -- a Texas-based private lab.
The remains have been identified as Gerald J. Forsman from Livonia.
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The remains were found on May 20, 2020, by the Knoxville Police Department in a wooded area.
With the remains in an advanced state of decomposition, they were sent to a forensic center for a closer look.
Initial studies suggested the remains were of a man aged between 55 and 70, but the cause of death was unclear.
Despite trying all the usual methods, identifying the man proved tricky.
Fast forward to 2023, and a DNA sample from the remains was sent to Othram for some high-tech genetic testing.
Just this month, Othram’s scientists found potential relatives in Michigan.
When investigators reached out, they connected with a family member who hadn’t seen Forsman in over two decades.
A DNA match confirmed the remains were indeed Forsman (born 2/27/58).
This achievement is part of a larger cold case initiative, supported by funding from U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett’s 2024 Community Project.
It’s the eighth cold case to be resolved through this effort.