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Unidentified Person

1972 Volusia County John Doe

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  • Last updated: March 31, 2023
  • Daytona Beach, FL
  • May 7, 1972

Overview of 1972 Volusia County John Doe

The child's partially nude, decomposed body was located in a pond off Indian Lake Road in Daytona Beach, Florida by two individuals. The area was three miles north of Highway 92. The bicycle found at the scene matched the description of one that had been stolen from New Smyrna Beach, Florida about four days before the body was discovered. The boy was later buried in the Cedar Hill Cemetery. After the case was reopened, his body was exhumed on November 13, 2013 in hopes of collecting DNA and to create a digital facial reconstruction.

Courtesy of the Doe Network. Clay Renderings by Joe Mullins

After the remains were re-examined, it was discovered that he may have been younger than what was initially believed. The previous estimation was that he was in his late teens to early twenties. Unfortunately, the DNA sample collected at that time was insufficient for profiling. Around the time of his discovery, the FBI made attempts to obtain his fingerprints but were unsuccessful. Chemical isotope testing performed by the University of South Florida for their Art of Forensic seminar in 2015 suggested he had been born in the United States. An additional clay reconstruction was also created. It was not specified if a usable DNA profile was obtained during this event.

Additional Information

Estimated Date of Death: 3-4 days prior

State of Remains: Decomposed

Cause of Death: Homicide by stabbing

Dentals: Available. All 32 teeth were in near perfect condition. No dental fillings.

Fingerprints: Not available.

DNA: Insufficient DNA for profiling.

Clothing: A maroon/red and white striped short-sleeved knit shirt was on the body, and a pair of purple and gray tweed pants had nearly been pulled off. Near the scene were a blue denim jacket (sleeve length 32), brown dress socks, and one black loafer dress shoe with a chrome/silver buckle on the side (size 8 1/2).

Jewelry: Unknown.

Additional Personal Items: Black wallet, containing $6.17, with paint flecks on it in left rear pant pocket. A green ten-speed Schwinn bicycle was near the body.

The Doe Network Case Number: 2128UMFL


Information

  1. Date Found:May 7, 1972
  2. NAMUS Number:13620
  3. Race:White
  4. Gender:Male
  5. Height:5'2" to 5'8"
  6. Weight:120 lbs
  7. Hair Color:Dark brown
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