A cold case dating back to 1980 is finding new life towards a solution to the mystery surrounding the remains of an unknown homicide victim found in Nye County.
In October 1980, Nye County Sheriff’s Office deputies found the remains of an unidentified adult male approximately one mile east of US-95, situated 60 miles south of Tonopah near a dirt road. They notified the Nevada State Police (NSP) to assist with the investigation following the discovery.
Subsequent forensic examinations revealed that the cause of death was homicide, resulting from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite extensive efforts over the years, including interviews, press releases, and DNA analysis, investigators struggled to make headway in identifying the victim or the perpetrator.
However, advancements in DNA technology offered a glimmer of hope as in March 2022, the FBI, NSP, and the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) sought the expertise of Othram, a forensic genealogy company, to conduct advanced DNA testing and a genealogy search.
The analysis conducted by Othram produced a genetic report and uncovered leads for detectives. With the collaboration of the FBI, Albert Matas of Commerce, Calif., was identified in December 2023. Further investigation revealed that Albert had lost contact with his family in September 1978.
Anyone with information about this case should contact the Nevada State Police Investigation Division at (775) 684-7456.
The Old Blog in the Desert 
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