Skeletal remains found on US mountain identified as missing Scot

After the forensic anthropology report was completed, the DNA samples and the skeletal remains were sent to the Wyoming State Crime Laboratory, Cheyenne, on 11 February for comparison.

On Tuesday, investigators finally received confirmation that the remains were biologically related to the family reference samples collected in Scotland.

This enabled experts to finally positively identify the remains as those of John Gillies.

At the family’s request, the county sheriff’s office and the Sublette County Coroner’s Office are now working with Interpol to co-ordinate the return of Gillies’ remains to Scotland.

Sheriff K C Lehr said: “This case is a testament to the dedication of everyone involved and the strength of partnerships that extend well beyond our county and even our nation’s borders.

“What began as the discovery of unidentified remains in a remote area of Wyoming ultimately brought together local, state, federal, and international partners with one shared goal – to give a family answers.

“We are grateful to everyone who played a role in helping bring John home.”