DeKALB CO., Ga.,None — It's a case that's haunted the DeKalb County Medical Examiner’s Office for more than a decade.
"It weighs on everyone; it really does," forensic investigator Linda Gochenour told Channel 2 investigative reporter Aaron Diamant.
In February 1999, police discovered the body of a 5- to 7-year-old boy in the woods behind a cemetery off Clifton Springs Road. The remains had been there for months.
Investigators spent weeks combing the site for clues. The community held a memorial service at a makeshift grave, and over the years, anthropologists have tried recreating his face -- the face of a boy that still has no name.
"A child deserves to be with people who love him, be with his family," Gochenour said. "We need to get him home."
The case struck a chord with investigators, who call him "Dennis."
"Every child deserves a name," said Gochenour.
Adding to the mystery, there were no obvious signs of how he died.
Investigators said there was no trauma. The boy was well dressed, and seemingly well cared for
DeKalb County Medical Examiner’s Office Interim Director Dewayne Calhoun was one of the first detectives on the scene.
"We couldn't believe that somebody could actually discard their child like they were garbage, like they mean absolutely nothing," Calhoun said.
Now, there is a new lead from a national database. On Wednesday morning, investigators had the boy's DNA sent to a lab in Texas, hoping a new high-tech test might link it to a missing child case in Maryland.
"We try not to get our hopes up too much, but you really can't help it," Gochenour said. "It would be great."
The results of those new DNA tests should be back within the next month.
In the meantime, investigators are asking the public for help. Take a look at the rendering above. Investigators believe the boy was African or African-American.
He was found dressed in a blue sweatshirt, red jeans and brown boots.
If you think you can help identify the child, please call the DeKalb County Medical Examiner’s office at 404-508-3500.
http://bcove.me/8cuylcem