Skeletal Remains on Washington Beach Identified as Missing Oregon Mayor Using Advanced DNA Testing

The remains of a John Doe whose skeletal remains were found on a beach in Taholah, Washington, in 2006, have been identified as those of Clarence Edward “Ed” Asher, a former Mayor of Fossil in Oregon.

Born in 1934, his positive identification followed years of unsuccessful investigations by the Grays Harbor Sheriff’s Office and the Grays Harbor County Coroner’s Office. Asher became known as Grays Harbor County John Doe (2006) and was entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) as UP139985.

The Identity of John Doe was Established with Genome Sequencing and Genetic Genealogy

Then, thanks to funding made available by the Governor, the Attorney General, and the Washington State Legislature, forensic genetic genealogy testing by Othram, Ed Asher’s identity was finally revealed.

Othram is a forensic technology company that uses genome sequencing and genetic genealogy to solve cold cases and identify John and Jane Does.

Born and raised in Oregon, Ed Asher opened the Asher’s Variety Store in Fossil in 1965. He was employed as a lineman for the Fossil Telephone Company until his retirement in 1995. Asher was also the Mayor of Fossil, and was 72 years old when he died.

His identification is the 43rd case in the State of Washington where officials have publicly identified an individual using technology developed by Othram.

DNASolves Brings Closure to Grieving Families

Visit DNASolves to learn more about other Washington cases where your financial support can help bring long-awaited answers and closure to grieving families.

There are Over 40 Unidentified Cold Cases Dating to 1979 in Multnomah County

There are currently more than 40 open, unidentified cases dating back to 1979 in Multnomah County. All of the cases are entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs).

The Multnomah Medical Examiner’s Office identifies deceased individuals using methods such as fingerprinting, dental records, facial recognition, and DNA obtained from relatives. Also involved in the identification process are forensic odontologists and anthropologists.

The Medical Examiner’s Office has published artists’ impressions of five men and two women found in Multnomah County, showing what clothing and jewelry they were wearing, where available.

If you recognize any of these people, contact the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office at 503-251-2402.