Ronald Lewis Dodge Obituary, Death – Imagine the relief of finally receiving closure after 30 years of uncertainty. This is the reality for the Pleasant Prairie community, which has been haunted by a cold case since 1993. After decades of investigation, authorities have now identified a John Doe homicide victim as Ronald Lewis Dodge, a member of the Menominee Indian Tribe from Keshena.
The case began on August 27, 1993, when the body of an unidentified man was found along railroad tracks in Pleasant Prairie, close to the Illinois border. The victim was in an advanced state of decomposition and lacked identification. It was determined that he had died from a gunshot wound around the time of his death. Despite extensive investigative efforts, his identity remained unknown for years.
The breakthrough came in 2023 when Dodge’s brother reported that his sibling had been missing since May 1993. DNA samples were collected from Dodge’s family, and his remains were exhumed for further analysis. On May 31, 2024, DNA testing confirmed that the body found in 1993 was indeed Ronald Dodge.
With Dodge’s identity confirmed, his remains are now being prepared for return to his family. Authorities are focusing on finding those responsible for his death. Anyone with information that could aid the investigation is urged to contact the Pleasant Prairie Police Department at (262) 694-7353.
The resolution of this case brings a sense of closure after years of unanswered questions. It is hoped that justice will soon follow for Ronald Dodge and his family.
In 1993, a man found dead near the Wisconsin-Illinois border was initially unidentified. Recent advancements in forensic technology have now led to the identification of this man as a native of Keshena, providing closure to a long-standing mystery.
The man, initially known only as John Doe, was discovered in a remote area by hikers. At the time, authorities could not determine his identity. Advances in forensic science, particularly in DNA testing, eventually allowed for the breakthrough identification of John Doe.
The key to solving the case was the entry of the victim’s DNA into a national database, where it was matched to a distant relative. This match led investigators to the victim’s family in Keshena. Further collaboration with local authorities confirmed his identity as a missing person from that area.
The delay in identifying the man was due to the limitations of forensic technology in 1993. At that time, DNA testing was not as developed or widely used as it is today. The technological advancements that came later were crucial in solving the case.
John Doe, now identified as Ronald Dodge, was known to be a quiet and reserved individual who frequently visited the area where his body was found. It is believed he may have been transient or homeless at the time of his death. Despite the mystery surrounding his past, his family in Keshena is relieved to finally know what happened to their loved one.
The identification of Ronald Dodge has had a profound impact on the Keshena community. It has provided much-needed closure and reignited a sense of hope and unity among residents. The community is coming together to honor Dodge’s memory and ensure he is laid to rest with dignity.
In summary, the identification of the man found near the Wisconsin-Illinois border in 1993 as Ronald Dodge from Keshena has resolved a long-standing mystery. Thanks to advancements in forensic technology and the efforts of local authorities, the case has been solved, and Dodge’s family can now have closure. The community in Keshena is rallying to honor his memory, demonstrating the importance of perseverance in solving cold cases and bringing resolution to families of missing persons.
