Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

William Cody Waldron | Photo via HCSO

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On March 14, 2013, the Eureka Police Department responded to a report of a deceased person found in a homeless encampment near Cooper Gulch in Eureka. The person had suffered extensive burns and could not be positively identified. At the time, the remains were believed to be those of 70-year-old William Cody Waldron.

Investigators collected DNA from the remains and submitted it to the California Department of Justice. A DNA sample from Waldron’s sister was also collected and compared with the remains. Due to the damage caused by the fire, the results were inconclusive.

The Humboldt County Coroner’s Office continued working to identify the remains over the next several years. As DNA technology improved, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) obtained grant funding to use forensic genetic genealogy to help identify unidentified remains.

Evidence from the case was sent to Othram Inc. in The Woodlands, Texas, for advanced DNA testing. Othram scientists successfully developed a DNA extract from forensic evidence and then used Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing to build a comprehensive DNA profile for the subject. Othram’s in-house forensic genetic genealogy team used the profile in a genetic genealogy search to develop new investigative leads that were returned to HCSO. 

HCSO investigators followed up on those leads and collected DNA samples from potential relatives. The DNA comparisons ultimately confirmed the identity of the deceased as William Cody Waldron, born September 23, 1942.

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office recognizes the importance of providing answers and closure to families whose loved ones are missing. We remain committed to pursuing every available resource to help identify missing persons and provide families with the answers they deserve.

Anyone with a missing family member is encouraged to contact HCSO Investigator Mike Fridley at (707) 441-3024 to request an update on their case and ensure family DNA samples have been collected.