Coconino County Launches Task Force for Unidentified Remains

Coconino County has formed a new task force focused on addressing cold cases involving unidentified remains within its borders. The goal is to reconnect these individuals with their families.

This task force brings together a variety of specialists from different sectors, including the examination room, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Information Technology, the Sheriff’s Office, and the County Attorney’s Office.

“Our mission goes beyond just solving cold cases; it’s about restoring identity and dignity to those who passed away nameless, while also providing closure for their families who have waited for so long,” County Attorney Ammon Barker noted.

The initiative plans to tackle cold cases going back as far as the 1960s by utilizing advanced technology and research methods. It will also leverage existing databases such as the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (Namus) and the DNA Index System (Codis), in addition to Forensic Genetic Genealogy (FGG), to start matching missing individuals.

The county is reaching out to the community for assistance in gathering DNA samples related to missing persons. There will be various DNA collection events, public forums, and information sessions held to encourage community involvement. Family liaisons and victim advocates will be available to support families, although the specific dates for these events are yet to be announced.

As of July 2025, the Coconino County Department of Health and Welfare has a total of 50 sets of unidentified remains in its custody.

For more information or to participate in this initiative, visit coconino.az.gov/unidentifiedRemains or email urtf@coconino.az.gov.