Home / Crime and Justice / DNA Solves 33-Year-Old Cold Case: A Life Rediscovered
DNA Solves 33-Year-Old Cold Case: A Life Rediscovered
12 Jun
Summary
- Remains found in 1993 identified as Denise Elaine Sexton Hartley.
- Technological and DNA advancements aided in identifying the victim.
- Investigation into Hartley's death and last days is ongoing.
Remains discovered in Minnesota in June 1993 have been identified as Denise Elaine Sexton Hartley, who went missing from St. Paul at age 27. This significant breakthrough occurred nearly 33 years after her remains were found in Washington and Ramsey counties, previously known only as "Bone Lake Jane Doe."
Hartley, originally from Ohio, moved to Minnesota in 1992 with her young daughter. The last contact anyone had with her was in 1993. Early investigative efforts, including a sketch and a mysterious tip about a phone call, yielded no identification.
In 2024, the Washington County Sheriff's Office collaborated with the DNA Doe Project, utilizing investigative genetic genealogy. This effort successfully traced family members, leading to a DNA sample from Hartley's daughter, which confirmed the identity through DNA analysis.
While the cause and manner of Hartley's death remain undetermined and no suspects have been arrested, the investigation into the circumstances of her final days is now active. Authorities are seeking information from the public to help solve the case.
