Skeletal Remains Found in Northern Kentucky Identified as Kenneth Linville, 40 Years Later | Latest Updates

Skeletal Remains Found in Kentucky Finally Identified After 40 Years

CARROLL COUNTY, Kentucky (WLWT) — After more than four decades, skeletal remains discovered in northern Kentucky have finally been identified. The remains, found in November 1980 near the Ohio River in Carroll County, were initially not linked to another set of skeletal remains found the previous month in Indiana near the Ohio River. However, DNA testing in 2005 revealed that both sets of remains belonged to the same individual.

Despite this breakthrough, the person’s identity remained a mystery until recently. In 2023, the Kentucky State Police handed over the skeletal remains to Othram, a forensic testing company in Woodland, Texas. Through advanced forensic-grade genome sequencing, Othram was able to develop a comprehensive DNA profile for the man, opening up new investigative leads.

Armed with this new information, KSP Detective Endre Samu managed to locate a potential family member. The family member willingly agreed to meet with Samu and Detective Paul Johnson, providing a DNA sample for further testing. As a result, the remains were positively identified as those of Kenneth Linville, who was born in Louisville, Kentucky, in 1939.

Despite this breakthrough in identification, the cause and manner of Kenneth Linville’s death still remain unknown. The investigation into his death is ongoing, with authorities determined to uncover the truth after all these years.

The identification of Kenneth Linville brings some closure to his family, who have spent more than four decades wondering about his fate. The discovery of his remains and subsequent identification will hopefully provide them with some answers and a sense of peace.

It is a testament to the advancements in DNA technology that even after such a long period of time, the identity of a person can be determined. Through the collaboration between the Kentucky State Police and Othram, closure is now within reach for families who have been waiting for answers for far too long.

While the investigation into Kenneth Linville’s death continues, the identification of his remains is a significant step forward. It serves as a reminder that no matter how much time has passed, the pursuit of justice and truth never wavers..