Body found on Lake Huron shoreline in 2016, identified as Alberta man

(ASHFIELD-COLBORNE-WAWANOSH, ON) - Police have identified the body of a man found on the Lake Huron shoreline eight years ago, using Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG).

Oct. 15, 2016, human remains were discovered on the Lake Huron shoreline, north of Port Albert. The adult male was wearing a life jacket. As a result, members of the Huron County OPP began an investigation under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB).

According to the Ontario Forensic Pathology Service, the cause of death was undetermined. However, foul play was not suspected in his death.

Investigators suspected that a man who was previously interviewed by “SooToday,” Sept. 15, 2016, under the assumed name of Mitchell NELSON, could be the man discovered deceased a month later.

The OPP requested public assistance for information through media relations and social media.

CIB detectives submitted the male's DNA for IGG in January, 2023, to determine his identity. The Toronto Police Service provided genealogy support and July 15, 2024, a family member's DNA was used to confirm that the man was Garnet Michael NELSON of Alberta. He was 56 years old at the time of his death and investigators have confirmed that he is the same man  who was interviewed by the news outlet in September, 2016.

"Investigative Genetic Genealogy has proven to be an invaluable resource for us as investigators, especially when all other methods have been exhausted,” said detective inspector Randy Gaynor of the OPP CIB. “In this particular case, it was only through the use of this advanced tool that we were able to bring resolution to Garnet's family. We thank the public and media for their interest in this case and the tips provided over the years."

Assisting on the investigation, were the Huron County OPP Crime Unit, OPP Forensic Identification Services, Victim Services, Toronto Police Service, the Office of the Chief Coroner, and the Ontario Forensic Pathology Service.