Detectives are seeking information on the identity of a John Doe from a 2021 homicide in Columbus.
On Dec. 8, 2021, officers responded to reports of a body under a highway overpass in the 500 block of Edgar Waldo Way. The individual was found in a homeless encampment and was unrecognizable due to extensive burns he received. His death is being investigated as a homicide.
Through forensic analysis, the individual was determined to be a male between the ages of 24 and 46 years old. He is of Central American ancestry, with his parents likely being from El Salvador or Guatemala. He is estimated to have been 5’2” tall with black or brown hair. Sur names of interest include De Paz, Paz, Pineda, and Castillo in the areas of San Salvador, El Salvador and Jutiapa, Guatemala.
A surgical style screw was found in his left ankle, and another was found with the remains, however, due to the condition of his remains, it is unclear where the second screw was originally affixed.
The boots pictured have his DNA on them, suggesting they were his. They are size 7.5 Justin Ladies Classic Roper Boots. On the bottom of both boots there are several circular indentations that may indicate a type of work he performed while wearing the boots, however, it is unclear at this time what the circular marks may be from.
Those with information that may assist detectives in identifying this man are encouraged to contact the Columbus Police Homicide Unit at 614-645-4036. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-TIPS (8477).
Republished courtesy of Columbus Divison of Police