News Summary
In a significant development, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Cold Case unit has identified a murder victim, Betty Jean Benton, who had been unnamed since 1996. Through advanced forensic genetic genealogy, detectives were able to confirm her identity after nearly three decades. The investigation continues as authorities seek more information about her life in North Carolina to gather insights into the circumstances of her death.
Charlotte Uncovers Identity of 1996 Murder Victim
In a remarkable twist of fate, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) Cold Case unit has successfully identified Betty Jean Benton, a murder victim who had gone unidentified for nearly three decades. The breakthrough came through a cutting-edge technique known as forensic genetic genealogy, which has quickly become a powerful tool in law enforcement.
The Discovery
Back in July 1996, human skeletal remains were found in a wooded area near the bustling Bank of America Stadium. The local authorities swiftly stepped in, with the Mecklenburg County Medical Examiner’s Office confirming that the remains belonged to a female and ruling her death as a homicide. However, the road to justice was anything but straightforward.
A Long Wait for Answers
In the early days, the police struggled to identify the remains using traditional methods. Betty Jean Benton was, unfortunately, one of many cases left cold. Fast forward to 2022, when the MPD decided it was time to take a fresh look. The remains were sent to Raleigh for an osteological examination by a forensic anthropologist, a precious investment funded by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Foundation.
Despite initial hopes, the first attempt to extract DNA yielded no results, mainly due to the deterioration of the remains over time. But in a story that exemplifies the tenacity of detectives and scientists alike, additional bones were sent to Othram Labs in Texas for another shot at DNA extraction in 2024. This time, the effort paid off.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Thanks to the collaboration between CMPD and the Investigative Genetic Genealogy Center at Ramapo College in New Jersey, the lab successfully extracted DNA from the remains. This DNA profile was then uploaded to two genealogy databases, paving the way for a breakthrough that had seemed elusive for years.
The Connection
Detectives were thrilled to confirm that the victim was indeed Betty Jean Benton, a woman who had been missing since the early 1990s. Her family last heard from her in February 1991 while she was in North Carolina, and they reported her missing the following year in 1992. Born in Louisiana in 1954, Benton spent most of her life in Chicago, Illinois, but there was little official information linking her to North Carolina before her tragic demise.
A Call for Information
The CMPD Cold Case Unit is not quite done yet; they are actively searching for any leads regarding Benton’s life in North Carolina, particularly anyone who may have come into contact with her prior to her death. As detectives delve deeper into the details surrounding her murder, community involvement becomes crucial. Every bit of information can help piece together the puzzle that is Betty Jean Benton’s final days.
Looking Ahead
In addition to seeking answers for Betty’s case, the CMPD Cold Case Unit has their hands full with at least nine other unidentified victims whose remains date as far back as 1932. It’s a haunting reality, but each day brings new advancements in technology and investigative techniques, holding the promise of hope for families still waiting for closure.
Conclusion
The identification of Betty Jean Benton is more than just a case resolved; it symbolizes the relentless pursuit of justice that defines the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area. As the investigation continues, police remain optimistic about uncovering further details about her life and untimely death. Community members are encouraged to stay alert, as the tiniest bit of information could shine a light on a dark period in history.
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Additional Resources
- WSOC TV: Cold Case Murder Victim Identified
- WCNC: Homicide Victim Found Identified
- Fox 13: Cold Case Solved
- KWQC: Former Deputy Named Suspect
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cold Case Murder
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
