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Georgia Cold Case Solved: Missing Man Found After 11 Years
8 Dec
Summary
- Skeletal remains discovered in rural Dallas, Georgia, were identified.
- DNA technology was crucial in identifying the man after an 11-year mystery.
- An investigation into the man's death is ongoing; case is now closed.
Skeletal remains unearthed in Dallas, Georgia, in September 2021 have been positively identified as Thomas Joe Kratzer, who was reported missing in February 2014. The discovery was made by a property owner, who found the remains along with a zip tie and two abandoned vehicles nearby. Initial investigations were unable to identify the White male, and the case went cold.
Two years later, in 2023, the Paulding County Sheriff's Office and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation submitted forensic evidence to Othram. This advanced forensic laboratory developed a DNA profile that generated new investigative leads, ultimately guiding authorities to potential relatives.
Comparisons with a relative's DNA sample confirmed the identity of Kratzer, who was last seen in October 2013. Sheriff Ashley Henson stated the identification provides closure for the Kratzer family and highlights the dedication of law enforcement. An investigation into Kratzer's death is ongoing.
