Cattaraugus County Sheriff's Office Seeks Information on Skeletal Remains

October 27, 2009

Somewhere there's a person who holds the key to unlocking the mystery surrounding human skeletal remains that were recently found along the edge of the Allegheny Reservoir in upstate New York. Authorities have used dental records to rule out a connection to at least two local missing person cases; however, they are still no closer to determining the identity of the individual. As a result, they recently released new information on an important piece of evidence in the case, hoping that someone might be able to put a face on Jane Doe.

According to acting Cattaraugus County Sheriff Timothy Whitcomb, authorities found a boot with the remains, which they believe belonged to the individual.

"We feel very confident it was attached to the remains because some of the remains were in the boot," Whitcomb told WGRZ.com. "The boot had been there as long as the body. It was muddy; it was dirty."

A sheriff's office press release describes the boot as a "left winter type boot, made of tan suede. [It] is mid-calf in length and size 6. The boot is fleece-lined and made in China under the brand name of Hotcakes. The front of the boot is embroidered with red, white and blue flowers and a green leaf."

Additionally, the press release stated that the forensic examination revealed that one of the skeleton's ribs showed evidence of a healed fracture. A fractured left tibia was also noted.

"Jane" is believed to be between the ages of 25 to 45 (likely 30-40), 5'1"-5' 8", 105-125 pounds, with a small build. Authorities surmise the body was in the water for a period of one to five years.

According to Whitcomb, his office is awaiting DNA test results, which it plans to enter into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) so that it can be compared to a national database of DNA profiles.

Anyone who believes he or she has any information regarding the identity of Jane Doe is asked to contact the Cattaraugus County Sheriff's Office at (716) 938-9191.

Related Link:
New Information Released on Human Skeletal Remains Found in Upstate NY

Photo Credits: Crime Scene: David Lohr; Boot: Cattaraugus County Sheriff's Office

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