Coconino County has officially established an Unidentified Remains Task Force, a specialized team dedicated to identifying unknown deceased individuals and reconnecting them with their families.
The task force includes experts from the Medical Examiner’s Office, Health and Human Services Department, Information Technology Department, Sheriff’s Office and County Attorney’s Office who reexamine historical cases involving unidentified remains with modern investigative tools.
“We’re not just solving cold cases — we’re restoring identities, returning dignity to those who have died without a name, and getting answers families have waited years to find,” County Attorney Ammon Barker said.
For decades, some families in Coconino County have lived with unanswered questions about missing loved ones. Advances in forensic science including DNA sequencing, forensic genealogy and digital facial reconstruction, now make it possible to revisit these cases with fresh hope.
The task force is reviewing a backlog of unidentified remains dating as far back as the 1960s, combining physical evidence with modern databases like the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System or NamUs, Combined DNA Index System, and Forensic Genetic Genealogy to begin matching remains to missing persons reports.
“Technology is evolving at an extraordinary pace,” Chief Information Officer Matt Fowler said. “Having the ability to analyze significantly larger number of genetic markers compared to traditional forensic DNA profiling enables the identification of relatives, even distant ones, through shared genetic information. We are excited to bring closure to families by leveraging today’s technology.”
The success of the task force will also rely on the community. County officials are urging families with missing loved ones to come forward, particularly those who have never submitted a DNA sample.
“You might hold the one detail that connects the dots,” County Sheriff Bret Axlund said. “We’re asking for your stories, your photos, your DNA to help solve these cases.”
To support this effort, the County will host a series of free DNA collection events, open public forums, and informational sessions to encourage participation and foster trust. A dedicated team of family liaisons and victim advocates will also be available to assist those navigating the process.
With this initiative, Coconino County is leading with both science and empathy, proving that even decades-old cases can still be solved when the right people, tools, and commitment come together.
Visit coconino.az.gov/unidentifiedremains or e-mail URTF@coconino.az.govfor more information or to contribute to the initiative.