Helen Renee Groomes was a teenager who disappeared on her birthday in October 1977 and was found near Elsberry, Missouri, on March 31, 1978.
She was identified by Othram in April 2024.
Case[]
Groomes was discovered on the Mississippi River near the Hatfield Landing close to Elsberry. An initial autopsy conducted following her discovery estimated that she had died at least four months prior. Her cause of death was determined to be drowning, with the manner of death remaining undetermined. At the time of discovery, she was estimated to be between 30 and 40 years old, leading authorities to search missing persons' reports in the wrong age group.
A significant identifying feature was a tattoo on her left arm, initially thought to read "Dee." Following her identification in 2024, her brother confirmed that the tattoo read "Del," the name of her boyfriend.
Groomes was buried as a Jane Doe until late 2023, when her remains were exhumed for further testing. Subsequent research correctly identified her as a teenager, prompting DNA testing for genetic genealogy with Othram.
Groomes' brother and uncle alleged that she was murdered by her stepfather, who was known to have a history of physically abusing the children in the family. According to them, the stepfather confessed to the crime to his daughter before his death.
Characteristics[]
- Dark brown hair.
- Light blue or gray eyes.
- Stocky build.
- Well-nourished.
- Tattoo on her left arm of the name "Del" between her left wrist and elbow.
- Teeth in good condition.
Clothing and accessories[]
- Beige bra.
- Cat's eye ring worn on her left hand.