Date: October 30, 2024, 08:19h. 

Last update: October 30, 2024, 08:19h.

The remains discovered near the Hoover Dam 15 years ago have been identified as William Herman Hietamaki, a missing Michigan native who once lived in Las Vegas.

Following extensive testing and investigation, authorities confirmed this week that the man was William Herman Hietamaki.

The discovery occurred on November 11, 2009, when construction workers found bones near the Hoover Dam during a project to widen Highway 93.

A further search uncovered additional bones and personal items, leading to the involvement of the National Park Service and local law enforcement.

An investigation by the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office found more bones, along with clothing and other items, indicating foul play.

After the remains and evidence were examined, the man’s identity remained unknown for years.

Further testing in 2022 and 2024 eventually led to the identification of William Herman Hietamaki using DNA samples and genetic genealogy.

Bone Samples Lead to Identification

The bone samples were tested for DNA traces at labs in Arizona, ultimately linking the mystery man to Michigan descendants from the 1800s.

Investigators traced possible relatives of Hietamaki, who confirmed his disappearance in 1995 while traveling in the Southwest.

Through DNA samples provided by relatives, the remains were conclusively identified as Hietamaki’s.

Details revealed that Hietamaki was born in 1950 in Michigan but led a nomadic lifestyle, eventually residing in Las Vegas before his death between 2006 and 2008.

He was known to hitchhike and live a transient lifestyle,” as stated by the MCSO.

Despite extensive tests, the cause of Hietamaki’s death remains a mystery due to the condition of the bones, despite known medical conditions.