On July 3, 2023, the skeletal remains of an unidentified individual were found in the Peavine Hills/Mountain area in Reno, Nevada. Law enforcement responded to the scene and began an investigation Recovered items included a blue backpack; Sketchers sneakers, size 9; men’s size small gray Columbia shorts; a gray baseball cap with no logo; a blue 509 motorcycle helmet; a baggie containing a compass and knife along with other survival items; a “Turtle Fur” knit hat; and a Glock 9mm handgun.
Despite an investigation led by the Washoe County Regional Medical Examiner’s Office, the individual could not be identified, including confirmation of the person’s biological sex or ancestry. The case was entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) as UP106559.
In May 2025, the Washoe County Regional Medical Examiner's Office submitted forensic evidence to Othram in The Woodlands, Texas where scientists determined that advanced DNA testing could help identify the person. At Othram, scientists successfully developed a DNA extract from the provided evidence and then used Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing to build a comprehensive DNA profile for the unidentified individual. Using this profile, biogeographical and biological sex analyses were performed, indicating that the remains belonged to an Asian male.
Othram's forensic genetic genealogy team then used the profile in a genetic genealogy search, developing new investigative leads. These leads were returned to law enforcement, enabling a follow-up investigation, and leading investigators to relatives of the unidentified man. A reference DNA sample was collected from a relative and compared to the DNA profile of the unidentified man using Othram's KinSNP Rapid Relationship Testing. This investigation led to the identification of the man, who is now known to be Andrew Tadashi Matayoshi, born Oct. 13, 1950.
Individuals who have taken a consumer DNA test can aid ongoing forensic investigations by joining the DNASolves database. Expanding the number of available DNA profiles increases the likelihood of successful identifications, helping to reunite families with their missing loved ones and resolve long-unsolved cases. The identification of Andrew Matayoshi represents the 17th case in the State of Nevada where officials have publicly identified an individual using technology developed by Othram.
Republished courtesy of DNASolves