Accident – Death – Obituary News :
The Breakthrough Identification of Evelyn Horne Townsend
The Indian River County sheriff made a significant announcement on Tuesday regarding one of the oldest murder mysteries in the county. After more than four decades, they have finally identified the victim who was found shot and killed on Sept. 1, 1982, near a canal close to SR 60.
From Jane Doe to Evelyn Horne Townsend
For 42 years, the victim was known only as Jane Doe by the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office. However, Sheriff Eric Flowers revealed that they have now given her name back. The victim has been identified as Evelyn Horne Townsend, who was 43 years old at the time of her death.
A Family’s Emotional Response
The news of the identification has left Evelyn’s daughter, Debra Townsend Dubois, and her brother, Levon Horne, shocked and stunned. Debra, who had just turned 18 when her mother was killed, expressed relief at finally knowing what happened to her. Levon, still absorbing the news, reflected on the long road to this revelation.
The Science Behind the Identification
Flowers explained that the cold case committee collaborated with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and Parabon, a genetic testing company, to identify the victim. Through advanced technology, they were able to trace a half-sibling, leading to the positive identification of Evelyn Horne Townsend.
Seeking Justice for Evelyn
With the victim now identified, detectives are focused on uncovering the truth behind Evelyn’s murder. Flowers mentioned that new persons of interest have been identified, even though some are deceased. The investigation continues to seek answers about how Evelyn ended up in the canal and who was responsible for her death.
As the family and authorities process this breakthrough, the community of Indian River County remains hopeful that justice will be served for Evelyn Horne Townsend after over four decades of mystery and uncertainty.
.