World War I veteran identified as first victim of Tulsa Race Massacre

In a significant development, the city of Tulsa has announced the identification of the first victim from the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, a World War I veteran named C.L. Daniel. The emotional revelation was made by Mayor G.T. Bynum during a press conference at city hall, where it was disclosed that researchers had located Daniel's grave after 103 years of uncertainty. Daniel, who was traveling from Utah to Georgia, met his tragic fate in the prosperous Black Wall Street area of Tulsa, with no signs of trauma visible on his remains. The identification of C.L. Daniel has brought closure to his family, allowing them to finally give him a proper burial after more than a century of not knowing his whereabouts. The massacre, which saw a white mob kill as many as 300 Black individuals and destroy the thriving Black Wall Street community, has long been a dark chapter in Tulsa's history. The discovery of over 120 graves during recent searches, with Daniel being the first victim directly linked to the massacre, has stirred emotions among descendants and advocates seeking justice and reparations. Forensic experts, including lead anthropologist Phoebe Stubblefield, a descendant of massacre victims herself, expressed astonishment at the finding of Daniel's remains and hinted at the possibility of more discoveries in the future. The meticulous process of DNA genealogy and forensic analysis, aided by organizations like Intermountain Forensics, played a crucial role in confirming Daniel's identity and shedding light on his tragic end. Mayor Bynum affirmed the city's commitment to continuing the search for more victims, ensuring that every individual who suffered in the massacre is honored and remembered. The search for victims of the Tulsa Race Massacre is ongoing, with the next phase scheduled to commence in July. Through collaborative efforts involving DNA technology, historical records, and community engagement, officials are striving to bring closure to families and descendants affected by the massacre. The identification of C.L. Daniel marks a significant milestone in the quest for truth and justice surrounding one of the darkest episodes of racial violence in American history, offering hope for further revelations and healing in the future.