The recent identification via DNA testing of a woman found dead behind a hotel in Georgia in 1993 has brought new hope to investigators and the victim’s family.
The recent determination of a woman’s identity, who was found deceased behind a hotel in Georgia in 1993, through DNA testing has instilled renewed hope in both investigators and the victim’s family.
The victim, Rebecca “Becky” Burke, was identified using forensic genetic genealogy, an advanced DNA testing method that merges traditional genealogy research with DNA analysis. This technology successfully connected Burke’s remains to a family member, enabling investigators to uncover more information about her and her background.
Burke’s remains were discovered on September 16, 1993, concealed by pine straw and branches behind an electrical unit in a wooded area between a former Fairfield Inn and an empty medical office. Aged 52 at the time of her death, authorities suspect she was murdered between two weeks and three months before her remains were discovered.
Although her body exhibited extensive dental work and hip replacement surgery that could have caused her to walk with a distinctive gait, no identification was found, and the lack of further information about Burke led the case to grow cold. However, her identification through forensic genetic genealogy has revitalized the investigation and uncovered new leads.
Authorities mention that Burke might have also used the surnames McChesney or Barnes, and her last known residence was in either the Marietta or Smyrna area of Cobb County, Georgia. A cold case task force is seeking information regarding her murder, and the Dekalb County District Attorney’s Office encourages anyone who knew Burke or worked at the inn where her body was discovered to contact them.
In a statement, Dekalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston expressed gratitude for identifying Burke’s remains but emphasized that there is still work to be done in the case. She urged anyone with information about Burke’s final days to step forward, highlighting the significance of public assistance in resolving cold cases.
The identification of Burke serves as a testament to the effectiveness of forensic genetic genealogy in cracking cold cases. This technology has been successfully employed in an increasing number of cases in recent years, enabling investigators to identify both suspects and victims in previously unsolved cases. Though the technology is relatively new, its potential to provide closure to families and deliver justice to victims is invaluable.
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- Deceased woman found: mail online
