Remains Found in Submerged Car Identified as New Jersey Mom Missing for Over a Decade

Remains of Missing New Jersey Mom Found in Submerged Car Identified After Over a Decade

Authorities have confirmed that human remains discovered in a submerged car belong to Bernadine Gunner, a New Jersey woman who had been missing for more than 14 years. The Office of the Camden County Prosecutor revealed that Gunner, aged 52, was reported missing by her family on July 11, 2010. She was last seen driving her Hyundai Elantra after indicating intentions of harming herself.

The breakthrough in the case came on May 16, 2024, when Gunner’s vehicle was located submerged in the Cooper River in Pennsauken, with human remains inside, as per a press release. The car was among three retrieved from the river around that time, according to ABC affiliate WPVI. The discovery was made possible by the efforts of the nonprofit organization United Search Corps.

After the recovery of the vehicle, DNA extraction was carried out on the remains at a private laboratory in Virginia. Subsequently, the samples were forwarded to the University of North Texas Center for Human Identification. The university confirmed on Wednesday, April 16 that the remains belonged to Gunner. Prosecutor Grace MacAulay expressed gratitude to all involved in the process of bringing closure to Gunner’s family.

In a social media post following the identification, Gunner’s daughter, Julia Young, expressed appreciation to United Search Corps for providing the family with the opportunity to give her mother a proper burial. Young also acknowledged the outpouring of support from well-wishers throughout the ordeal.

Despite the confirmation of Gunner’s identity, Young shared in a subsequent post that her emotions remained complex, stating, “I can’t truly say if it’s really closure to me at this point. I know will probably NEVER find out what really happened, so that right there is a hard pill to swallow.” A memorial service for Gunner was scheduled by Young for Monday, April 28.

Tragically, missing person cases often leave families searching for answers and closure for years. The uncertainty and emotional toll that accompany such instances can be overwhelming. The involvement of organizations like United Search Corps highlights the crucial role that community initiatives play in resolving long-standing mysteries and bringing comfort to grieving families.

Gunner’s case serves as a reminder of the enduring pain and unanswered questions that families of missing persons endure. Despite the passage of time, the discovery of her remains signifies a crucial step towards providing closure to her loved ones. The acknowledgment and support from the community during such trying times are vital in helping families navigate the complexities of loss and uncertainty.

The resolve and perseverance displayed by Gunner’s family throughout the years of uncertainty underscore the unwavering bond of love and hope that sustains them. As they now prepare to bid a final farewell to Bernadine Gunner, their collective strength and resilience stand as a testament to the enduring power of familial ties in the face of adversity.