The mystery of a missing diver’s fate off the coast of Volusia County has been resolved, nearly two decades later, thanks to the unique combination of forensic science and personal diving know-how, with DNA evidence finally linking recovered remains to Robert Martin, who disappeared in 2006. According to a ClickOrlando report, human remains discovered in 2007 were recently identified after a private lab was able to extract sufficient DNA for forensic genetic genealogy testing, leading the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to confirm Martin's identity in April 2025.
Dr. James Fulcher, the Volusia County Medical Examiner, brought his extensive diving experience to the investigation, reviewing Martin's damaged diving equipment and piecing together the events that may have led to his tragic end, the doctor explained the process saying, “With my diving background, I could examine the equipment and picture what he likely experienced,” according to an interview reported by Observer Local News. Fulcher used his 25 years of deep diving experience to analyze the gear and site conditions to determine that malfunctions and dive habits contributed to what has now been ruled an accidental death.
The remains, which washed onto New Smyrna Beach in Volusia County, could not be identified until advancements in forensic genetic genealogy testing became available through a state grant program. The Volusia Sheriff's Office, in collaboration with Dr. Fulcher, employed this technology to finally bring closure to the case, with Martin's next of kin being notified of the findings.
