Remains of two men missing for 48 years found in river

They disappeared on February 19, 1976. The remains of two men have been identified 48 years after their disappearance, in Illinois in the United States, reports CBS News.

Clarence Owens and Everett Hawley, aged 65 and 72 respectively, had attended a political rally before stopping at a farm auction. While they were supposed to travel together 25 miles away, they had not been heard from again.

Criminal track ruled out

In March 2024, fishermen using fish-detecting sonar discovered a vehicle submerged in the Pecatonica River, about 100 miles west of Chicago. The car, a Chevrolet Impala, was then pulled out of the water. More than 100 bones were discovered inside and on the river bottom.

DNA was extracted from the remains through analysis. It was then compared to relatives of the two missing persons. This is what allowed Clarence Owens and Everett Hawley to be formally identified. Before that, a forensic anthropologist had examined the remains and had not identified any trauma. While no foul play is suspected, the cause of death of the two men remains unknown.

“This is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of our detectives and forensic scientists,” Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office said. “It reminds us that no case is ever truly closed, no matter how much time has passed.”