After two decades, a cold case mystery from Solano County has finally been resolved with the identification of a body found in 2001. According to a Facebook post by the Solano County Sheriff's Office, advancements in forensic technology have led to the identification of John Doe #3 (2001) as Craig William Ott, a Sacramento man who disappeared under unknown circumstances over two decades ago.
In partnership with the Solano County Coroner's Office, the Doe Cold Case Project initiated a re-examination of old cases with an aim to definitively identify the remains of those who were once nameless. Despite the many years that have passed, it's clear that these efforts can eventually lead to meaningful conclusions. "The hope is to bring some form of closure to the families of these unidentified persons by dedicating ourselves to identifying these individuals," the Sheriff's Office said.
Othram Inc. and the California Department of Justice were acknowledged by the Coroner’s Office for their "invaluable assistance" in the identification process. Utilizing cutting-edge DNA testing and Forensic Genetic Genealogy, the teams worked tirelessly and successfully uncovered Ott’s identity after the body was exhumed for a second examination, as per the Solano County Coroner's Office.
With his identity now known, authorities are seeking further assistance to unravel the mystery surrounding Ott's disappearance. They urge anyone with information to step forward and contact Detective Christopher Cavazos at (707) 784-7050 or Coroner Investigator Jessica Dew at (707) 784-7500. The discovery serves not only to potentially fully close a long-standing case but also to provide some measure of peace to those left behind, waiting more than twenty years for answers about their loved one's fate.
