Charleston County, S.C. – Dozens of families are left without answers as 32 unidentified bodies remain in Charleston County, according to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs). The bodies, which range in age from recent finds to those discovered in the 1970s, continue to be a mystery for authorities.
The Challenge of Unidentified Bodies
According to Charleston County Coroner Bobbi Jo O’Neal, the number of unidentified individuals in the county is considered one of the country’s greatest mass fatality challenges. While nearby counties like Berkeley and Dorchester have fewer than five unidentified bodies each, Charleston County stands out with a significantly higher count. Richland County has 11 unidentified bodies, and Greenville County has only two.
Despite the ongoing efforts, O’Neal noted that these cases remain unsolved due to several challenges, including poor DNA samples, lack of dental or medical records, and slow processing times.
“Some of these cases are very complicated and could cost between $5,000 to $10,000 for advanced DNA testing and genetic research,” O’Neal explained. “Unfortunately, our budget doesn’t always allow for these costs, making it difficult to move forward with all 32 cases.”
The Role of NamUs and Database Limitations
NamUs, the database that tracks missing persons and unidentified bodies, is crucial in solving these cases. However, not every state mandates that local agencies update their cases in NamUs, which can delay the resolution of cases. 17 states have legislation requiring NamUs case entries, but others still do not, which means there could be a lack of matching between unidentified bodies and missing persons.
NamUs states that their effectiveness increases with more cases and better data. With better awareness and more detailed information, the likelihood of resolving these cold cases grows.
Efforts to Solve the Cases
The Charleston County Coroner’s Office continues to make efforts to identify these bodies. Despite the challenges, O’Neal emphasized that no unidentified body is discarded. All bodies are stored at the coroner’s facility, awaiting further advancements in forensic science or the availability of cheaper testing methods.
“We’ve not forgotten them, and we’ve not given up,” O’Neal said. “Even if we can’t make progress today, we remain hopeful that new science will help us solve these cases tomorrow.”
How the Public Can Help
The public is urged to help by providing any information that might assist in identifying these individuals. The Charleston County Coroner’s Office encourages anyone with information to contact them at 843-746-4030 or to submit tips through their website.
Additionally, any unidentified bodies under the age of 21 are reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children to assist with identification.
For those interested in learning more or viewing sketches of the unidentified individuals, the Coroner’s Office has made the information available on their website.
Looking Forward
With advancements in forensic technology, the hope is that some of these cold cases will be resolved in the near future. For now, the Charleston County Coroner’s Office continues to prioritize the identification of these individuals, determined to bring answers to the families left searching for closure.
