July 25, 2018
UPDATE: GBI Seeks Help with Identifying Remains
(July 25, 2018) The GBI continues to seek the public’s assistance in identifying human remains found near Interstate 85 in February of 2017. The following list contains new information on this investigation:
A GBI forensic artist has completed a skull reconstruction and sketch (attached).
The University of North Texas Center for Human Identification (UNTCHI) has obtained a DNA profile from the submitted bone sample and this DNA profile has been entered into CODIS as well as the Texas Department of Public Safety’s State DNA Index System.
A forensic anthropologist cited an ancestry of “Probable Black” and additional traits that are frequently observed in individuals of “Hispanic origin.”
Anyone with information concerning the case is asked to call the GBI Athens office at 706-552-2309 or the Banks County Sheriff’s Office at 706-677-2248. Information may also be submitted on-line at https://gbi.georgia.gov/webform/submit-tips-online.
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Initial press release - May 27, 2017
Commerce, Georgia – The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is seeking the public’s help in identifying human remains found near Interstate 85.
On Sunday, February 5, 2017, a skeleton was discovered in a wooded area near New Salem Methodist Church, at 2170 Highway 59, in Commerce. The body’s location was one mile south of I-85, Exit 154 for Toccoa/SR 63/Martin Bridge Road. The Banks County Sheriff’s Office requested GBI’s assistance with the investigation.
A forensic anthropological examination estimates the remains to be of an African American female, approximately 30-44 years of age, and approximately 4’9’ to 5’6” in height. The date of death is estimated to be up to 4 years prior to the time of discovery.
Found among the remains, was a metal ring and a butterfly necklace charm (see attached photographs). Blue, purple, and gray in color fabrics were also collected from the scene. Dental is available for comparison.
Anyone with information concerning the case is asked to call the GBI Athens office at 706-552-2309 or the Banks County Sheriff’s Office at 706-677-2248. Information may also be submitted on-line at https://gbi.georgia.gov/webform/submit-tips-online.
