Randolph, who holds degrees in anthropology and epidemiology, added, “This work beautifully combines my background in science with my passion for genealogy.”
How the Process Works
The DNA Doe Project receives cases from law enforcement or medical examiners when traditional methods—fingerprints, dental records, or facial reconstructions—have failed.
DNA is extracted from the remains and sequenced into a digital format. That sequence is then uploaded to genealogical databases such as GEDmatch, FamilyTreeDNA, and DNAJustice.org, where volunteers begin the process of building family trees.
Through distant DNA matches and historical records like census data, volunteers trace potential relatives and narrow down the possibilities until a likely identification is made. Law enforcement agencies then confirm the identity by obtaining DNA samples from immediate family members.
Randolph noted, “Some cases have been solved within an hour or two. Others have taken as long as five years.”
Cold Case: Georgia Inmate Indicted in 1986 Jefferson Parish Airline Park Assaults
