Georgia man identified nearly 30 years after remains found near interstate

A Georgia family finally has answers nearly three decades after a man’s remains were discovered near an interstate.

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The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office in Alabama announced that human remains found in 1997 have been identified as Jimmy Monroe Pitts, who was born Feb. 21, 1953, and had been reported missing from Georgia.

The skeletal remains were discovered May 18, 1997, near Interstate 65 in Atmore, Ala. Despite years of investigative efforts, authorities were unable to determine the man’s identity because of the condition of the remains and limitations in forensic technology at the time.

The case got renewed attention in 2020 when Crime Scene Investigator Lindsey Miles began working to identify the man. Miles coordinated with several forensic organizations to pursue advanced DNA testing.

After multiple unsuccessful attempts, DNA Labs International successfully extracted and sequenced DNA from the remains in 2025, allowing forensic genetic genealogy research to begin.

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In August 2026, Moxxy Forensic Investigations identified Pitts as a potential match.

Investigators then traveled to Georgia, where they collected a DNA reference sample from Pitts’ sister. DNA Labs International conducted the comparison, providing the scientific evidence needed to confirm his identity.

Sheriff Heath Jackson said the case is a reminder that investigative work does not always produce immediate answers.

“I am proud of the persistence shown by our personnel and grateful to everyone who contributed to this identification,” Jackson said. “Most importantly, after nearly three decades, Jimmy Monroe Pitts has his name back, and his family can finally receive answers.”

The sheriff’s office said the investigation has ended, and there is no evidence indicating foul play.

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