Conway County Authorities Identify 1994 Homicide Victim Through Genetic Genealogy

Jamie Ann Moore's remains were found along railroad tracks over 30 years ago, but her identity remained unknown until now.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The Conway County Sheriff's Office and Arkansas State Police have identified a 1994 Jane Doe homicide victim as Jamie Ann Moore, a 32-year-old woman from Conway, Arkansas. Moore's body was found along railroad tracks in October 1994, but her identity remained unknown for over 30 years until investigators used genetic genealogy to make the identification.

Why it matters

This case highlights the power of investigative genetic genealogy to help solve cold cases and provide closure for victims' families. The identification of Jamie Ann Moore after more than three decades could lead to new investigative leads and potentially the arrest of her killer.

The details

On October 24, 1994, Moore's body was found along the railroad tracks near U.S. Highway 64 between Morrilton and Plumerville. The Arkansas State Medical Examiner determined her death was a homicide. Despite extensive investigative efforts, the victim's identity remained unknown until 2026 when the Conway County Quorum Court appropriated funds to use genetic genealogy to develop a DNA profile and composite image. Investigators were then able to identify a potential family member, obtain a DNA sample, and confirm Moore's identity through testing by the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory.

  • On October 24, 1994, Moore's body was found along railroad tracks.
  • In 2016, the Conway County Quorum Court appropriated funds to develop a DNA profile and composite image.
  • In 2024, advanced genealogical research by Othram Labs assisted in identifying familial matches.
  • On February 19, 2026, the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory confirmed the DNA match, identifying Moore.
  • The homicide investigation remains active as authorities continue to review evidence and follow leads.

The players

Conway County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency leading the investigation into Jamie Ann Moore's 1994 homicide.

Arkansas State Police

The state law enforcement agency assisting the Conway County Sheriff's Office with the investigation.

Jamie Ann Moore

The 32-year-old woman from Conway, Arkansas whose remains were found along railroad tracks in 1994 and whose identity was recently confirmed through genetic genealogy.

Stephanie Wyatt

The investigative genetic genealogist who developed critical leads that ultimately led to the identification of Jamie Ann Moore.

Tom Tatum II

The Fifteenth Judicial District Prosecutor providing legal guidance and prosecutorial support in the investigation.

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What they’re saying

“The identification of Jamie Moore marks a significant step forward in this investigation and, most importantly, provides long-awaited answers to Jamie's loved ones.”

— Mike Smith, Conway County Sheriff (osceolatimes.com)

“We are grateful for the partnership and continued support of the Arkansas State Police and the diligent efforts of the Arkansas State Crime Lab, as well as Stephanie Wyatt for her highly specialized work in genetic genealogy that made this breakthrough possible.”

— Mike Smith, Conway County Sheriff (osceolatimes.com)

What’s next

The homicide investigation remains active as Conway County Sheriff's Office investigators and Arkansas State Police Special Agents continue to review evidence, follow leads, and work toward identifying those responsible for Jamie Ann Moore's death.

The takeaway

This case demonstrates the power of investigative genetic genealogy to help solve cold cases and provide closure for victims' families decades after a crime. The identification of Jamie Ann Moore could lead to new investigative leads and potentially the arrest of her killer, showing the importance of continued efforts to utilize advanced forensic techniques to pursue justice.