The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office recently announced that they have successfully identified the remains of Logan Nathaniel Bowman, a 5-year-old boy who disappeared in 2003. These remains, found last year in a wooded area of Galax, Virginia, have been identified with the help of Othram Inc. The company specializes in forensic genealogy analysis, which has helped solve cold cases nationwide.
According to DNASolves.com, a branch of Othram Inc., Logan’s remains were found inside a trash can in the area of Iron Ridge Road in Galax. Alongside the remains, investigators discovered a sleeping bag, a white Winnie-the-Pooh blanket with pink flowers, and a piece of cloth. It was determined that the remains had been at the location for an extended period of time.
Logan’s mother, Cynthia Davis, and her then-boyfriend, Dennis Schermerhorn, were arrested and charged shortly after the young boy’s disappearance in January 2003. Cynthia Davis pled guilty to two counts of child neglect and one count of homicide in connection with Logan’s disappearance. She was subsequently sentenced to 20 years for the child neglect charges, with the sentence suspended, and 30 years for homicide with 15 years suspended.
Othram Inc. was able to “develop a full DNA profile which allowed them to use Forensic Genetic Genealogy, and two direct DNA comparisons of family members to identify the remains as being Logan Nathaniel Bowman,” the sheriff’s office stated. The use of this advanced forensic technology has revolutionized the way investigators are able to solve cold cases, bringing closure to families and justice to those who have been wronged.
Logan’s remains were discovered in July 2020, and the investigation for his disappearance and murder has spanned nearly two decades. The identification of his remains brings an end to a case that has long haunted the community.
The discovery of Logan’s remains inside a trash can highlights the shocking and devastating nature of his disappearance and death. The community is left to grieve the loss of a young life that was taken far too soon, while investigators and law enforcement continue to seek justice and closure for Logan and his family.