On Your Side: Missouri crime agencies begin advanced DNA testing for unknown remains [Video]

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) – Agencies across the state are starting to send samples for DNA testing on unknown remains of bodies found in Missouri.

In the 2024 Missouri budget, then Gov. Mike Parson signed a line item for $1.5 million for advanced DNA testing of unidentified remains in the state. The state has samples from 120 unidentified remains that will be tested with the funding.

Answering who someone is can be the first step to solving a crime.

“At the end of the day, finding your missing person being connected to the unidentified, that is closer, but that is not the positive outcome we are looking for,” says State Representative Tricia Byrnes, a Republican out of Wentzville.

Missouri State Representative Tricia Byrnes is behind in getting the funding for advanced DNA testing.

“Every case is a solution for a family. It resolves a lot of unanswered questions, but most importantly …