DNA identifies skeleton found in Olympic National Park tent in 2000

, born December 3, 1960. The remains were found with camping items including binoculars, a daypack, and winter clothing, but no identification. Investigators initially estimated the man had been dead between six months and four years and placed the case in a national database of unidentified persons.

DNA technology leads to identification In 2024, a forensic anthropologist submitted a DNA sample from the remains to a Texas laboratory that specializes in cold cases. The lab developed a genetic profile that matched samples provided by relatives in Hawaii and other states.

Officials said the combination of DNA matches from first cousins on both sides of the family, along with other records, confirmed the identity. Serrao’s last known contact with family members occurred in 1998.

Cause and manner of death The Clallam County coroner’s office stated Friday that the cause of death was a gunshot wound to the head and classified the manner as suicide. A family member said the priority now is returning the remains to relatives. The identification ends a case that had remained open for nearly 26 years and provides a starting point for investigators to examine the period before Serrao’s death.