In a groundbreaking development, the remains of a woman who was discovered buried under rocks in rural Nevada in 1997 have finally been identified, providing a major breakthrough in the cold case that had remained unsolved for over two decades. Lorena Gayle Mosley, also known as Lorena Gayle Sherwood, has been positively identified as the woman found buried beneath rocks in Washoe County in June 1997, according to a news release from the Washoe County Regional Medical Examiner's Office.

The identification was made possible through the use of forensic genetic genealogy, a technique that combines forensic science with genealogy research. The medical examiner's office collaborated with Othram, Inc., a company specializing in this innovative technique. Othram used genome sequencing to develop a comprehensive DNA profile for the remains, which was then employed in a genetic genealogy search to generate investigative leads.

The initial investigation into Mosley's death was hindered by the severe decompositional changes to her body, making it impossible to determine the cause of death. However, due to the circumstances surrounding the discovery of her body, the case was classified as a homicide. Investigators were unable to ascertain even basic details about Mosley, such as her hair or eye color.

To aid in the identification process, details of the case, including personal items and clothing found with the remains, were entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System. Additionally, a forensic reconstruction of Mosley's appearance was created in the hopes of generating leads, but unfortunately, no breakthroughs were made at the time.

The breakthrough in the case occurred when the forensic evidence was submitted to Othram in 2023. Using their expertise in forensic genetic genealogy, scientists at Othram were able to develop a DNA extract and build a comprehensive DNA profile for the remains. These profiles were then compared to DNA profiles uploaded to consumer genealogical databases. With the assistance of the FBI, the medical examiner's office was able to positively match old paper fingerprint records to fingerprints taken from the body after death, confirming the identification of Mosley as the woman found buried in 1997.

Upon making this significant discovery, Mosley's next of kin was promptly notified and was able to claim her remains. The news release from the county emphasized the importance of new technology and innovation, as well as the generosity of donors, in finally providing closure for this cold case. Chief Medical Examiner and Coroner Laura D. Knight expressed her gratitude for being able to give Mosley the dignity of being laid to rest with her name.

While this breakthrough marks a significant milestone in the investigation, the Washoe County Sheriff's Office continues to actively investigate the circumstances surrounding Mosley's death. Additionally, the medical examiner's office is now focusing on solving another cold case from 1984, demonstrating their dedication to bringing justice to victims and closure to their families.