A body recovered from the Mississippi River in June of 2022 has been identified as Robert Eaton, missing from Elizabeth, Indiana. Eaton was last seen leaving the Caesars Southern Indiana casino around 10:30 pm on February 20, 2022.
On June 2, 2022, a body was recovered from the Mississippi River at Portageville, Missouri. Over the next two years he was referred to as the Portageville John Doe.
Traditional DNA testing yielded no matches, however genetic genealogy technology by Othram eventually led authorities to a relative and a positive identification was made.
‘On June 2, 2022, the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Office received a call about a human body that was spotted in the Mississippi River at Portageville, Missouri. Officers responded and recovered the remains, which were transported to a medical examiner for autopsy. The remains were those of a white male between the ages of 18 and 29, approximately 5’10” in height, and were estimated to have been in the river for a minimum of two to three months. No signs of trauma were noted. The case was entered into NamUs as UP 96458. A traditional DNA profile was developed for comparison to missing persons, but no matches were returned.
They completed an updated dental inventory and analysis and entered those data into NamUs. They also used literature-based and bone chemistry research to prioritize samples for advanced DNA testing. These samples were sent to Othram, where their scientists were able to build a comprehensive SNP profile using Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing,® despite significant DNA degradation. While Dr. Bengtson and her students continued to fine tune the decedent’s biological profile, Othram’s in-house forensic genetic genealogy team worked to develop new leads in the case, which were returned to investigators.‘
The circumstances of Mr. Eaton’s disappearance and death are the subject of an ongoing investigation.
If you have any information regarding the disappearance of Robert Eaton please contact the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department at (812) 738-2195, or the Harrison County Tip line at (812) 738-TIPP (8477).
The Disappearance of Robert Eaton
Robert Eaton lived in Louisville, Kentucky at the time of his disappearance. He is religious and enjoys sports, especially the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots.
Robert reportedly has schizophrenia. He lives a low key life, somewhat off the grid, and does not carry his phone with him often, according to family.
Disappearance
On February 20, 2022, Robert Eaton was driven to the Caesars Southern Indiana casino in Elizabeth, Indiana in an Uber.
Robert was seen leaving the casino at approximately 10:30 pm that night, and hasn’t been seen or heard from since.
An Uber driver was supposed to pick him up on February 21, however Robert did not pack an overnight bag.
Robert was reported missing to the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department on March 4, 2022.
Investigation
Robert does not own a vehicle, and typically travels by way of a cab service. He does not always carry his cell phone with him.
His family has searched the area where Robert disappeared with drones and dogs, but no clues to his whereabouts have been found.
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