On September 24, 2007, a significant discovery was made along the shores of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, when human remains were found washed ashore. The discovery prompted a swift response from authorities in Volusia County, who subsequently collected a human mandible from the site. Initial investigations indicated that the remains likely belonged to an adult male; however, the identity of the individual could not be established at that time. The presence of trauma on the remains raised suspicions of foul play, leading investigators to categorize the case in the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) under the reference number UP1521. Despite traditional investigative efforts, no significant leads emerged regarding the identity of the deceased.
Fast forward to February 2025, when a breakthrough in the case was made possible through vital funding from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). Leveraging the Missing and Unidentified Human Remains (MUHR) grant, the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office sent forensic evidence from the case to Othram, a renowned forensic laboratory specializing in the analysis and identification of human remains from degraded or limited DNA samples. Utilizing advanced Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing techniques, Othram scientists were able to create a comprehensive DNA profile from the collected evidence.
This newly developed profile was subsequently handed over to FDLE’s forensic genetic genealogy team, which embarked on a genealogical investigation aimed at identifying potential relatives of the deceased. Their search proved fruitful, ultimately leading to the positive identification of Robert Martin. Initially reported missing in 2006 while diving off the coast of Volusia County, the circumstances of his disappearance had long suggested a drowning incident, although his remains had never been recovered until now. Notably, prior to the identification of Martin in 2007, diving equipment belonging to him had been found, reinforcing the family’s fears of a tragic outcome.
The collaborative efforts among the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, FDLE, and Othram concluded nearly 18 years later, providing a long-awaited resolution for Robert Martin’s family. His case marks the 43rd instance in Florida where individuals have been identified through the pioneering technology developed by Othram. As forensic genetic techniques continue to evolve, there remains hope for further answers in longstanding cases. For those interested in supporting such investigations, additional information on similar Florida cases can be found at DNASolves, a platform dedicated to bringing closure to families that have endured years of uncertainty in missing person cases.
