LYON COUNTY, Ky. — Human remains found in a Kentucky lake nearly 25 years ago have been identified as the remains of an FBI fugitive.
On May 6, 1999, two fishermen discovered a man dead in Lake Barkley in Lyon County, Kentucky, near Paducah. His body was wrapped in heavy tire chains and anchored with a hydraulic jack.
Investigators at the time were unable to identify the man. In 2016, the body was exhumed in hopes that further examinations would lead to an identification. Despite DNA tests, dental examinations and advanced forensic testing, the victim would remain unidentified for another seven years.
Earlier this year, Kentucky State Police partnered with NAMUS and Othram Inc., a private forensic lab specializing in forensic genealogy. Using advanced genealogy DNA testing, investigators were able to find a relative of the victim, which led investigators to identify the remains as Roger Dale Parham.
Who is Roger Dale Parham?
In 1999, Parham was living in Fort Smith, Arkansas where he was awaiting trial on various criminal charges. In March of that year, Parham disappeared and was thought to have left the area to flee prosecution.
During his disappearance, the FBI obtained additional charges for Parham and conducted an ongoing investigation into his whereabouts. Until now, Parham's disappearance remained a mystery.
Parham's cause of death remains undetermined; however, the case is being investigated as a homicide due to the "suspicious circumstances in which the remains were located," KSP officials said.
Anyone who has information regarding the death of Parham is urged to call Kentucky State Police Post 1- Mayfield at (270)-856-3721. Tips can also be provided by accessing the Kentucky State Police website.
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