Greenbelt, Maryland, January 21, 2026
The remains of a young man found in 1981 along the Baltimore-Washington Parkway have been identified as 24-year-old Edward ‘Eddie’ Devone, thanks to advancements in DNA technology. Devone had been missing since the late 1970s, and his identification offers closure to his family. Investigators are now looking into the circumstances surrounding his death, which remain unclear.
Greenbelt, Maryland – Unidentified Remains from 1981 Identified as Edward “Eddie” Devone
Greenbelt, Maryland – The DNA Doe Project has identified the remains of a young man found along the Baltimore-Washington Parkway in 1981 as 24-year-old Edward “Eddie” Octavis Devone. Devone, a Baltimore native, was last seen by his family in the late 1970s.
Discovery and Initial Investigation
On August 3, 1981, U.S. Park Police discovered the body of a young African-American man wrapped in a blanket alongside a guardrail on the Baltimore-Washington Parkway near Greenbelt. The individual was estimated to be between 15 and 25 years old, approximately 5 feet 2 inches tall, weighing 106 pounds, with distinctive dental anomalies. Despite extensive efforts, the cause of death remained undetermined, and the case went cold.
Advancements in DNA Technology
In October 2024, after traditional identification methods failed, detectives turned to the DNA Doe Project, a nonprofit organization specializing in investigative genetic genealogy. DNA testing revealed familial connections in North Carolina, leading to the identification of Devone. A childhood photograph provided by relatives confirmed his identity in December 2025.
Background on Edward “Eddie” Devone
Born in 1956, Devone was last seen by his family in the late 1970s. His remains were discovered in 1981, but his identity remained unknown until recent advancements in DNA technology facilitated the breakthrough.
Implications and Ongoing Investigation
The identification of Edward “Eddie” Devone brings closure to his family and underscores the importance of DNA technology in solving cold cases. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death to determine the cause and manner of death.
Related Cases in the Region
The identification of Devone follows other notable cases in the Maryland area where unidentified remains were identified decades later. In September 2021, the “Woodlawn Jane Doe,” a 16-year-old from Alexandria, Virginia, was identified 45 years after her murder.
Conclusion
The identification of Edward “Eddie” Devone highlights the advancements in forensic science and the dedication of organizations like the DNA Doe Project in bringing closure to families affected by long-unsolved cases. Authorities continue to seek information to fully understand the circumstances of his death.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What were the circumstances of Edward “Eddie” Devone’s death?
The exact cause and manner of Edward “Eddie” Devone’s death remain under investigation. Authorities are working to determine the circumstances surrounding his death.
How was Edward “Eddie” Devone identified after 45 years?
Edward “Eddie” Devone was identified through DNA testing conducted by the DNA Doe Project, which revealed familial connections in North Carolina. A childhood photograph provided by relatives confirmed his identity in December 2025.
What is the DNA Doe Project?
The DNA Doe Project is a nonprofit organization specializing in investigative genetic genealogy to identify unidentified remains and missing persons.
Are there other similar cases in the Maryland area?
Yes, in September 2021, the “Woodlawn Jane Doe,” a 16-year-old from Alexandria, Virginia, was identified 45 years after her murder.
What is the current status of the investigation into Edward “Eddie” Devone’s death?
The investigation into the circumstances of Edward “Eddie” Devone’s death is ongoing, with authorities seeking information to fully understand the cause and manner of death.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Discovery Date | August 3, 1981 |
| Location | Alongside the Baltimore-Washington Parkway near Greenbelt, Maryland |
| Estimated Age at Discovery | 15-25 years old |
| Height | Approximately 5 feet 2 inches |
| Weight | 106 pounds |
| Distinctive Features | Severely deformed teeth with unusual lengths, angles, and gaps |
| Identification Method | DNA testing by the DNA Doe Project |
| Identified As | Edward “Eddie” Octavis Devone |
| Age at Identification | 24 years old |
| Last Seen By Family | Late 1970s |
| Current Status of Investigation | Ongoing, with authorities seeking information to determine the cause and manner of death |
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