Human remains found nearly 25 years ago in Mayfield, KY identified
MAYFIELD, Ky. (KBSI) – Kentucky State Police in Mayfield have positively identified remains found nearly 25 years ago.
Advanced DNA technology help identify the remains found on May 6, 1999 in Lake Barkley, Lyon County, Kentucky by two fisherman.
The remains have been identified as Roger Dale Parham.
The body was found wrapped in heavy tire chains and anchored with a hydraulic jack.
At the time, investigators could not identify the male using traditional investigative techniques.
In 2016, the body of the victim was exhumed in hopes that further examinations would help make an identification. However, despite extensive efforts using DNA technology, dental examinations, forensic pathology, and other advanced forensic testing, the victim remained unidentified.
A profile for the remains was entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Person System (NAMUS) as case: UP# 75.
In early 2023, Kentucky State Police began working with Othram Inc., a private forensic lab that specializes in forensic genealogy. A partnership with NAMUS and Othram Inc. allowed for advanced genealogy DNA testing of the remains. Through the testing, a relative of the unidentified person was found. That allowed investigators to identify the remains as Roger Dale Parham.
Investigators began researching Parham. That led to multiple revelations.
In 1999, Parham lived in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
At that time, Parham was awaiting trial on various criminal charges. In March of 1999, Parham disappeared and was thought to have left the area in an effort to get away from prosecution. The FBI obtained additional charges for Parham and conducted an ongoing investigation into his whereabouts.
However, until now, Parham’s disappearance remained a mystery.
His cause of death remains undetermined. However, due to the suspicious circumstances in which the remains were found, the case is being investigated as a homicide.
The Kentucky State Police thanked Othram Inc., NAMUS, the University of South Florida Anthropology Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Fort Smith Police Department and various other entities who helped in making the identification in this case.
Anyone who has information regarding the death of Parham is asked to call Kentucky State Police Post 1- Mayfield at (270)-856-3721. Tips can also be provided by by accessing the Kentucky State Police website at kentuckystatepolice.ky.gov/tip.
