Tammy Lowe is identified decades after remains found in Toledo
- Tammy Lowe, a missing woman from Michigan, was identified as Jane Doe after her remains were found in Toledo in 1987.
- The identification was made possible through genetic genealogy and DNA testing funded by the Porchlight Project.
- This case highlights the advancements in forensic technology that can help resolve long-standing cold cases.
In Ohio, authorities have identified the remains of a woman known as Jane Doe, whose body was discovered behind an auto repair shop in Toledo in 1987. The investigation revealed that the woman was an 18-year-old named Tammy Lowe from Taylor, Michigan. Her remains were found wrapped in a cloth and burned, with police estimating she had died several days before being located. Despite various descriptions and clues at the time, the case went cold for many years without an identification. The identification process was revived in October 2024 when the Porchlight Project collaborated with local law enforcement to leverage DNA technology for identification. The efforts included funding for genetic genealogy DNA testing, which was conducted by Othram, a laboratory specializing in forensic genetics. Through this process, a possible relative living in Michigan was identified. This led to detectives from the Ohio Bureau of Investigation, the Toledo Police Department, and the Lucas County Coroner's Office tracking down family members near Detroit. On March 20, 2025, DNA samples were taken from a close relative to confirm that Jane Doe was indeed Tammy Lowe, whose family had been missing her for decades. The Toledo Police Department and other agencies expressed gratitude towards the Porchlight Project and Othram for their critical role in solving this cold case. The identification not only brings closure to Lowe's family but also highlights the effectiveness of modern DNA technology in resolving cases that have remained unsolved for years. In a similar vein, another cold case involving remains found in Sonoma County had also been solved, showcasing how advancements in forensic science can aid law enforcement in identifying unidentified victims. These advancements in forensic genetics and the collaboration between local authorities and nonprofit organizations represent a significant step forward in addressing cold cases. Such efforts not only aid in identifying victims but also help bring justice for families searching for answers regarding their missing loved ones. This spotlight on the importance of genetic testing also underscores the ongoing need for funding and resources dedicated to solving cold cases across the nation, ensuring that no victim remains forgotten and that their families can find peace through identification and remembrance.