Decades-Old Mystery Unraveled: Remains Bound in Chains in Kentucky Lake Linked to FBI Fugitive, Roger Dale Parham

In 1999, a startling discovery was made by fishermen in a Kentucky lake—a set of remains hidden deep within Lake Barkley, Lyon County. Years passed, and the identity of these remains remained an enigma until recently, when groundbreaking advancements in forensic genealogy led to a breakthrough in the case.

The identified individual was Roger Dale Parham, a man sought by the FBI at the time of the discovery. Parham's story intertwines with a past arrest and a subsequent disappearance in connection with a heinous crime. 

He had been wanted in relation to a rape case involving a minor in the prior year. Following his November 1998 arrest in Arkansas, Parham was granted release on bond by a local court. However, instead of appearing in court as required, he evaded the legal system, causing the escalation of his case and the issuance of a federal arrest warrant. 

The charges against him then expanded to include "unlawful flight to avoid prosecution."

During the course of this period, Parham's whereabouts remained unknown. Authorities suspected he might have fled to Mexico, but his precise location remained elusive. It was during this period that his remains were discovered in the lake, wrapped in heavy tire chains and anchored by a hydraulic jack, alluding to suspicious circumstances surrounding his demise.

The mysterious circumstances of Parham's death led law enforcement to treat the case as a homicide, despite the cause of death remaining undetermined. The lack of identification persisted for years until 2016, when his body was exhumed with the hope of utilizing advancements in forensic science to unveil his identity. 

However, traditional methods and advanced forensic techniques, including DNA analysis, dental examinations, and forensic pathology, failed to yield results.

Years later, in a concerted effort with forensic genealogy experts, a breakthrough occurred. Their collaboration led to the identification of a relative of Parham, offering a pivotal lead that eventually confirmed his identity, solving a long-standing mystery.

The Kentucky State Police are actively seeking information regarding Parham's death. Individuals with any pertinent information are urged to contact the Kentucky State Police Post 1-Mayfield at (270)-856-3721 or provide tips via the Kentucky State Police website at www.kentuckystatepolice.ky.gov/tip.

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