Human remains discovered at Algonquin Park more than 45 years ago have been identified through the use of investigative genetic genealogy.
That’s according to the OPP, who say the remains discovered near the Hardwood Lookout Trail in April of 1980 have been identified as Eric Singer of Cleveland, Ohio.
Police said the discovery of the remains launched an extensive OPP investigation, with assistance from the Ministry of Natural Resources. Over several days, a boot, a leather wallet, clothing, a sleeping bag, camping gear and additional human remains were found. At the time, it was determined that they belonged to a white male between the ages of 18 and 21, who died sometime between July 1971 and the spring of 1978.
Foul play was not suspected.
In March 1995, additional human remains were discovered along the same trail. A jawbone that was located was determined to belong to the remains found in 1980.
In 2017, the OPP unveiled a 3D clay facial reconstruction, which generated dozens of tips, but none led to a confirmed identity.
The investigation continued, and in April 2022, the male’s DNA was submitted to the DNA Doe Project for analysis in an attempt to determine identity through family members. By September 2023, the presumptive identity was verified, and family members were contacted.
“Eric Singer’s remains were found before I was even born,” said OPP Lead Investigator, Detective Sergeant Philip Holmes. “The fact that I’m involved in supporting his family in understanding what happened to him feels a little surreal. This case demonstrates the incredible results that are possible when modern investigative tools, such as investigative genetic genealogy, are used to resolve historic cases and provide long-awaited answers to families.”
