...NORTH SEA MAN...
What lessons can be learned from this 1994 Cold Case?
What caught my attention was the brief but informative paragraph that spoke of how they went about examining the exhumed body. One would think that the remains of the Somerton Man may be subject to the same processes.
THE PROCESS:
Stable isotope analysis can narrow down where a person has lived by examining the presence of elements like carbon and hydrogen in their bones and teeth, which originates from the food they've consumed.
Dr Chapman is keen to point out it's not a precise science, but a strong indicator.
"When I saw that isotope ratio result it was this kind of mind-blowing moment," he reflects.
"Serendipitously, this investigation that appeared to be entirely of German origin swung back to Australia. And that's where we've been ever since."
The investigators say collaboration has been the key to keeping the case active, with the ICCAP structure allowing university students, scientists, and law enforcement agencies to bring fresh perspectives and compare notes.
look at the dates, 2022 when the news broke that there was an Australian link, and still the investigation goes on.
Reading through the articles, there are two in fact, the link above has a link within it, but there was something noticeably missing, While DNA was mentioned, there was no mention of a hair sample, There is a good reason for that, DNA degrades rapidly in salt water and that includes in bones and teeth. I imagine that's why the focus has been on stable isotopes together with advanced DNA processes.
The ABC is looking for information about the man shown in the photograph, it is 30 years since his body was found but someone possibly in Australia may recognise him.
Happy Reading!