Advanced DNA testing has solved a decades-old mystery by identifying skeletal remains found in Washington as belonging to Clarence Edwin “Ed” Asher, who disappeared in 2006.
Asher, a 72-year-old former mayor and avid crabber, vanished after heading out alone on his boat in Tillamook Bay, Oregon. His boat was later found adrift with live crab aboard, but no life jackets. Unable to swim, Asher was presumed to have drowned, and a memorial service was held that year.
Months later, unidentified skeletal remains washed ashore in Grays Harbor County, Washington, and were labeled John Doe. In 2024, scientists used advanced forensic DNA sequencing and genetic genealogy to finally identify the remains as Asher’s, bringing long-awaited closure to his family.
Officials credited state-funded forensic genealogy efforts for solving the case and encouraged people to join DNA databases to help identify other missing persons.