MONROE COUNTY — Skeletal remains found near Lake Lemon in Monroe County more than 18 years ago have now been identified.
A turkey hunter found the remains in May 2004 and despite several attempts to identify the person, a match was never found — until last week.
Earlier this year, Detective Alexander Hahn with the Monroe County Sheriff's Office got funding for a forensic genealogy DNA examination through Othram, a private firm that assists law enforcement in solving unidentified remains, by comparing DNA of family members with those recovered in an investigation.
Through DNA and genealogy, the remains were identified as Steven Gabbard, 38, of Louisville. Gabbard had been reported missing by family and was last known to have been in Indianapolis.
Deputies say an investigation at the time indicated he may have been a victim of foul play.
Gabbard's family has been notified.
RELATED: Skeletal remains found in Tennessee 37 years ago identified as missing Indiana girl | Remains found in Hancock County in 1990s ID'ed as missing Cleveland woman
-
Officials share new details in rescue operation of American airmen in Iran
President Donald Trump on Monday described a complex U.S. military rescue operation that recovered two airmen who ejected from a downed F-15 fighter jet and landed in Iran. (Scripps News)
Lineup for 2026 Indy Film Fest announced
The Indy Film Fest is right around the corner, and organizers announced the festival’s lineup of screenings for 2026.
WRTV announces new morning team, expands AM LIVE coverage starting May 4
The station’s morning newscast, which previously aired Monday through Friday from 5 to 7 a.m. as a hybrid live and recorded broadcast, will now be fully live and expand to three hours. Starting May 4, AM LIVE will air from 4 to 7 a.m.
New version of traffic enforcement text scam making the rounds
A new traffic enforcement text scam is making the rounds. Several people contacted WRTV Investigates about a text message claiming to be from the Marion County Superior Court’s Traffic Division.
