Human Remains Found Under Overpass in 2012 Remained a Mystery for Years. They Were Finally Identified Thanks to DNA Sample

Forensic genealogy testing confirmed the body belonged to Ronald M. Risher

NEED TO KNOW

  • A maintenance employee found the remains of an unidentified man on Feb. 18, 2012, under the I-94 overpass of Cicero Avenue in Chicago, authorities said
  • No foul play was suspected at the time
  • On Jan. 20, 2026, thanks to genetic testing, authorities confirmed the remains belonged to Ronald M. Risher

Authorities have identified human remains that were found 14 years ago under a Chicago overpass.

According to a Thursday, Jan. 29, news release from the Illinois State Police (ISP), the remains of an unidentified man were first discovered on Feb. 18, 2012, under the I-94 overpass of Cicero Avenue by a maintenance employee performing work in the area at the time.

Police said that no foul play was suspected, and that the victim’s identity had remained a mystery until last month…

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