Forensic scientists have identified a man found in a barrel in Lake Mead in 2022, using breakthrough DNA technology.
Investigators in Nevada had been unable to identify the man, Edward Jackson, who was discovered with a gunshot wound to the head. After several failed attempts, Clark County investigators sought help from the Oklahoma State University forensic team.
“They sent us a bone fragment. We used that bone fragment to get DNA ourselves, and we turned that DNA into a computer file that we then uploaded to a genealogy website,” said Dr. Jason Beaman, chair of OSU’s School of Forensic Sciences.
Beaman said that the DNA was degraded due to decades in the water. Using forensic genealogy, his team spent two to three months building family trees to find a potential match.
“We were able to find someone who fit the age range, and we had DNA from his mother, but also from his father in the genealogy website. So, we got convinced that that was him,” Beaman said.
The team then worked with investigators to test DNA from a living relative, confirming the family connection to Edward Jackson.
“Nothing is more rewarding than allowing a family member that’s been looking for someone for a long time and bringing closure to them,” Beaman said.
Investigators are still working to uncover the details of Jackson’s final moments. Beaman said that OSU is currently working on about a dozen cases, partnering with law enforcement agencies across the country.
The goal, Beaman said, is to make this technology more accessible and help more families find answers.
