DNA Doe Project

DNA Doe Project logo

The DNA Doe Project (DDP) is a non-profit organization that uses genetic genealogy to identify unidentified deceased individuals (often referred to as "Does"). The project was founded in 2017 by Dr. Colleen Fitzpatrick and Dr. Margaret Press. The organization collaborates with law enforcement agencies, medical examiners, and coroners to solve cases of unidentified remains.

History

The DNA Doe Project was established in 2017 with the goal of applying genetic genealogy techniques to identify unknown individuals. The project gained significant attention in 2018 when it successfully identified the Buckskin Girl, a previously unidentified young woman found in Ohio in 1981. This success demonstrated the potential of genetic genealogy in forensic investigations.

Methodology

The DNA Doe Project utilizes a combination of DNA analysis and traditional genealogical research. The process typically involves the following steps:

1. **DNA Extraction**: DNA is extracted from the remains of the unidentified individual.
2. **DNA Sequencing**: The extracted DNA is sequenced to generate a genetic profile.
3. **Genetic Genealogy**: The genetic profile is uploaded to public genealogy databases, such as GEDmatch, to find potential relatives.
4. **Genealogical Research**: Genealogists construct family trees and use traditional research methods to identify the individual.

Notable Cases

• Buckskin Girl: Identified in 2018 as Marcia King, who had been found deceased in Ohio in 1981.
• Lyle Stevik: Identified in 2018 as a man who had committed suicide in a Washington motel in 2001.
• Joseph Henry Loveless: Identified in 2019 as a man whose dismembered remains were found in Idaho in 1979.

Collaboration and Impact

The DNA Doe Project collaborates with various organizations and agencies to solve cases. Their work has led to the identification of numerous individuals, providing closure to families and aiding in criminal investigations. The project has also raised awareness about the potential of genetic genealogy in forensic science.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations

The use of genetic genealogy in forensic investigations raises several ethical and privacy concerns. The DNA Doe Project adheres to strict guidelines to ensure the ethical use of genetic data. They obtain consent from relatives and work within the legal framework to protect individuals' privacy.

See Also

• Genetic genealogy
• Forensic science
• Unidentified decedent
• GEDmatch
• John Doe