Arkansas Authorities Identify Woman Found Dead Near Tracks 30 Years Ago

Jamie Ann Moore's identity was a mystery for over three decades until investigative genetic genealogy led to a breakthrough.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Conway County Sheriff's Office and Arkansas State Police have identified a woman found dead near railroad tracks in 1994 as Jamie Ann Moore, a 32-year-old from Conway, Arkansas. Moore's body was discovered in October 1994, but her identity remained unknown for over 30 years until investigators used advanced DNA analysis and genealogical research to generate leads and confirm her identity.

Why it matters

This case highlights the power of new forensic techniques like investigative genetic genealogy to solve long-standing cold cases and provide closure for victims' families. The identification of Jamie Ann Moore after over three decades is a significant development that could help advance the still-active homicide investigation.

The details

Moore's body was found near railroad tracks along U.S. Highway 64 between Morrilton and Plumerville in October 1994. The Arkansas State Medical Examiner ruled her death a homicide, but her killer or killers were never identified. In 2016, the Conway County Quorum Court provided funding for initial forensic DNA profiling and a composite image of the victim. In 2024, more advanced genetic genealogy research by Othram Labs and investigator Stephanie Wyatt generated leads pointing to a possible family member, leading investigators to obtain a DNA sample that was confirmed as a match by the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory on February 19, 2026.

  • On October 24, 1994, Moore's body was discovered near railroad tracks in rural Arkansas.
  • In 2016, the Conway County Quorum Court provided funding for initial forensic DNA work on the case.
  • In 2024, advanced genetic genealogy research led to a breakthrough in identifying a possible family member.
  • On February 19, 2026, the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory confirmed the DNA match, identifying the victim as Jamie Ann Moore.

The players

Jamie Ann Moore

A 32-year-old woman from Conway, Arkansas whose body was found near railroad tracks in 1994. Her identity remained unknown for over 30 years until advanced DNA analysis and genealogical research led to her identification in 2026.

Conway County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that has been investigating the 1994 homicide of Jamie Ann Moore, along with the Arkansas State Police.

Arkansas State Police

The state law enforcement agency that has been working with the Conway County Sheriff's Office on the investigation into Jamie Ann Moore's 1994 homicide.

Stephanie Wyatt

An investigative genetic genealogist whose specialized work helped generate leads that pointed investigators toward identifying Jamie Ann Moore.

Arkansas State Crime Laboratory

The state crime lab that confirmed the DNA match identifying Jamie Ann Moore as the victim found near railroad tracks in 1994.

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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 (whiterivernow.com)

What’s next

The homicide investigation into Jamie Ann Moore's death remains active, with Conway County Sheriff's Office investigators and Arkansas State Police agents continuing to review evidence and follow leads. Fifteenth Judicial District Prosecutor Tom Tatum II is providing legal guidance and prosecutorial support as they work to identify and bring Moore's killer or killers to justice.

The takeaway

This case demonstrates the power of new forensic techniques like investigative genetic genealogy to solve long-standing cold cases and provide closure for victims' families. After over 30 years, the identification of Jamie Ann Moore is a significant breakthrough that could help advance the still-active homicide investigation and bring her killer or killers to justice.