***Breakthrough in Cold Case: Jane Doe from 1997 Identified***
Authorities are seeking a suspect in a homicide case from 1997 in Washington state following the identification of remains using advanced forensic technology. The skeletal remains were discovered in October 1997 by an individual walking through the woods in Wilkeson, Washington, located south of Seattle. The forensic genetic genealogy company Othram shared this information in a recent news release. Although officials determined that the remains belonged to a woman measuring 5 feet 5 inches and aged between 20 and 50, her identity remained unknown.
The deceased woman was found wearing a dark blue long-sleeved sweatshirt featuring a Pacific Lutheran University logo, a basketball emblem, and the word “LUTES.” She was also dressed in Size 7 blue jeans and Size 4 1/2 Reebok tennis shoes. Despite the detailed description, no one had come forward to claim the remains, resulting in the woman being referred to as Pierce County Jane Doe. Her information was added to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System in 2009, but no links were established.
The case went cold over the years, but in October 2023, the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office submitted forensic evidence from the remains to Othram to explore potential identification through advanced DNA testing. Othram scientists successfully extracted DNA and utilized forensic genome sequencing to create a thorough genealogical profile, which was then employed for genetic genealogy research. This research uncovered new investigative leads that were passed on to law enforcement agencies.
Following a comprehensive follow-up investigation and meetings with potential relatives, DNA samples were collected and compared to the profile developed by Othram, eventually leading to the positive identification of Laurie Krage as the Pierce County Jane Doe. The sheriff’s office confirmed that Krage, born in December 1959, was last known to be alive in January 1996 and was married to Ronald Martin, who passed away in 2020.
The case is now considered a homicide investigation, and the authorities have urged anyone with information to step forward. Investigators are particularly interested in Krage and her late husband’s movements between 1995 and 1997, as Krage was known to travel through Pierce County. Pierce County is situated approximately 45 miles from Seattle.
