Marcia Kaylynn Bateman (August 18, 1960 - c. May 1988) was a young woman who was found murdered in Michigan in 1988.
She was identified in 2019 with the assistance of the DNA Doe Project.
Disappearance[]
Bateman was last seen alive in May 1988. She lived a semi-transient lifestyle and was on the streets for some time. She had no car, so she hitchhiked or received rides from family members or friends to reach her desired destinations. She was reportedly involved in drug use and sex work and possibly experienced mental health issues. She also traveled to Dallas, Texas, Los Angeles, California, and Oklahoma to visit family and friends.
She may have been in these cities before she disappeared. After hearing no word from her for three months, her family reported her as missing in August 1988.
Case[]
A hunter discovered Bateman's skeletal remains near Covert Township, Michigan, on October 12, 1988. The site was near Interstate 196 and County Road 378. No clothing was found on or near her remains. Her death was ruled a homicide, but it is unknown as to how she was murdered. Investigators worked to identify her body at the time but were unsuccessful.
The DNA Doe Project and Special Investigation Section of the Paw Paw Post later teamed up to utilize forensic genetic genealogy to find her relatives. Her identification occurred 2 weeks later through DNA testing of relatives. Her burial place is at Mary Immaculate Catholic Church Columbarium in Farmers Branch, Texas. Authorities are trying to figure out how her body was found in Michigan, as she had no known ties to the state. It could be related to her history of hitchhiking.
Characteristics[]
- Wavy light brown/blond shoulder-length hair.
- Likely given birth at least once.
Gallery[]
Sources[]
- Marcia Bateman at the DNA Doe Project
- Marcia Bateman at the Doe Network
- Marcia Bateman at Find a Grave
- Wood TV:
- WTVB (archived)