Overview of 1978 Jackson County John Doe
The victim was found bound and wrapped in plastic trash bags in the Waterloo Recreational area on August 30, 1978. A witness observed a vehicle dumping what they believed to be garbage at 9:20 a.m. When he went to investigate, he discovered two dead bodies. Detectives were able to identify the additional victim as Charlene Gwynn, a 24-year-old sex worker from Detroit. Authorities believe the cases are connected and that both victims were likely from the metro Detroit area.
Initially, the unidentified decedent was believed to have been biologically female, DNA testing completed in 2021 proved the victim was born biologically male.
Estimated Date of Death: Months prior State of Remains: Not recognizable - Near complete or complete skeleton Cause of Death: Suspected homicide
Dentals: Unknown Fingerprints: Unknown DNA: Available.
Clothing: Blue jeans (26"waist, 33 1/2" inseam), violet colored long sleeved blouse (size 14, 100% silk, label "IRKA"), outer shell a beige colored long sleeve blouse (size 5/6, 100% polyester, label "RD2"), reddish brown nylon neck scarf, panty hose, bikini bra (34), bikini panties (size 4) and Glossy black high heeled shoes (4 1/2" heel) with gold tassel ankle tie. Jewelry: Unknown Additional Personal Items: Auburn, wavy, collar-length wig.
The Doe Network Case Number: 3860UMMI