Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Twenty years ago, a young boy in Arizona stumbled upon a jawbone while exploring his rock collection. Little did he know that this seemingly insignificant find would lead to the positive identification of a U.S. Marine who had tragically lost his life in a training accident decades later.
The Unveiling of New Evidence
Last year, the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office decided to take a fresh look at the mysterious jawbone and handed it over to the Ramapo College Investigative Genetic Genealogy Center in New Jersey. Despite previous attempts at conventional DNA testing yielding no results, the genealogy center’s cutting-edge techniques uncovered a breakthrough.
A Long-Awaited Closure
The jawbone was confirmed to belong to Captain Everett Leland Yager, a Marine who met his untimely demise in a training accident in California over 70 years ago. His remains were eventually laid to rest in his hometown in Missouri, but the presence of his jawbone in Arizona remained a perplexing mystery.
An Intriguing Twist
Experts speculate that a bird may have carried the jawbone from the accident site to Arizona, adding a fascinating layer of intrigue to the story. The journey of this bone piece serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable ways in which history can unfold.
The Role of Education and Dedication
Cairenn Binder, assistant director of the Ramapo College IGG Center, highlighted the importance of education and perseverance in cracking this case. The center’s summer boot camp students, alongside experienced researchers, played a pivotal role in piecing together Captain Yager’s story.
A Heartwarming Reunion
Thanks to advanced genetic profiling, Captain Yager’s daughter provided a DNA sample that confirmed the match, paving the way for the jawbone to be returned to his family. This heartwarming reunion signifies a closure long overdue for Captain Yager’s loved ones.
This captivating account was originally published on NBCNews.com. For more intriguing stories, visit NBC News.
.