Remains Were Discovered in Park After Grave Was Desecrated. Officials Finally Identified Them as Woman Who Died in 1907

The mystery surrounding human remains discovered in a Delaware park more than a decade ago has finally been resolved with the identification of the individual involved. Police recently announced that the remains belong to Hannah Graham Kleitz, a woman who passed away in 1907 at the age of 29.

The story began on June 5, 2011, when New Castle County Police were alerted to a wooded area in Sellers Park, Wilmington, following reports of human remains. Upon arrival, officers found a skull along with skeletal remains in the vicinity. Medical investigations subsequently indicated that the remains belonged to a female, estimated to be between 25 and 50 years old. Despite these findings, authorities were unable to ascertain the individual’s identity at the time.

The remains were sent to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for further analysis. Investigators extracted a DNA profile, which they entered into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) and the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs). Unfortunately, these efforts did not yield any leads towards identifying the deceased.

Fast forward eight years later, the New Castle County Police’s cold case unit revisited the case. A 3D scan of the victim’s skull was produced and sent to a forensic art professor at George Mason University. This professor carried out a facial reconstruction, hoping this visual representation might assist in finally establishing the woman’s identity.

In addition to the reconstruction, investigators employed advanced forensic investigative genetic genealogy techniques. They reached out to individuals across the country who offered their ancestral information and DNA profiles in a bid to identify the remains. This extensive investigation took a significant turn in January 2026 when a potential family member contacted the police with alarming information about a grave desecration.

The family member revealed that the mausoleum and grave of a relative at Riverview Cemetery had been disturbed in 2002, and remains similar to those found in Sellers Park had been removed. With the family’s support, authorities conducted an exhumation and carried out a DNA comparison, which ultimately led to the identification of Kleitz’s remains.

On August 27, members of Kleitz’s extended family, police officials, and those involved in the long-standing investigation convened at Riverview Cemetery for a poignant ceremony. During this gathering, her remains were ceremonially returned to her mausoleum, providing long-awaited closure to both her family and the authorities.

The New Castle County Police extended their gratitude to everyone who contributed to resolving this case. In a statement, they acknowledged the effort and compassion of those involved in the investigation, ensuring Hannah’s return to her rightful resting place after over a century.

This remarkable case highlights not only the advancements in forensic science but also the dedication of those who work tirelessly to provide closure for families affected by lost relatives. In a world brimming with cold cases, the identification of Hannah Graham Kleitz stands as a testament to the intersection of technology, genealogy, and the indomitable human spirit in the quest for truth and justice.