Remains Found Near Hoover Dam Identified as Michigan Man Missing Since 1995

William Herman Hietamaki's remains were identified through forensic genetic genealogy, bringing closure to his family decades after he disappeared.

The remains were discovered by construction workers near the Hoover Dam in 2009 and were recently identified as William Herman Hietamaki.
Hietamaki was last seen by his family in 1995 when he visited his sister in New Mexico; he was known for his nomadic lifestyle and hitchhiking.
Authorities estimate that Hietamaki died between 2006 and 2008, but the cause of death remains unknown due to the condition of his remains.
The identification was made possible by Othram Inc., a Texas-based genetic lab, which received grant funding for forensic genetic genealogy testing.
Hietamaki's family, who had not seen him for nearly 30 years, expressed relief and closure following the identification of his remains.