Through the use of genetic genealogy, the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) has positively identified human remains found in Conception Bay South in May 2001.
Temistocle (Temy) Casas died of homicide. His remains were located in a wooded area off Minerals Road and in the years since, investigators have worked tirelessly to confirm his identity.
In August 2021, the RNC began working with Othram Inc. a private company specializing in genetic genealogy and forensics based in Texas. Othram successfully extracted a DNA profile from the remains and uploaded it to GEDmatch in January 2022. A match was made with a fourth cousin in October 2022 but the cousin was unable to provide information about the victim. Then in February 2024, a match was made with a first cousin who was able to connect investigators directly with immediate family members. DNA testing with a family member has confirmed the identity of Temistocle (Temy) Casas.
Now, investigators are appealing to the public for help identifying who may be responsible for his death.
Casas travelled from Cuba to Quebec City on a tourist visa in April 1992. There is no record of him travelling to Newfoundland and Labrador. It is believed he died between 1997 and 1998 and would have been in his early 30’s at the time of his death.
Investigators are looking to put together a timeline of his movements in the last years and months of his life. The RNC is looking to speak to any known associates of Casas, particularly a Joanne Bergeron who is believed to have spent time in Cuba prior to April 1992 where she worked as a travel agent, and today would be approximately 68 years old.
A dedicated e-mail has been established to reach the investigative team directly. Please contact report@rnc.gov.nl.ca with any information. You can also call 709-729-8000. To report anonymously contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com .
https://x.com/RNC_PoliceNL/status/1795829433062019361
https://www.rnc.gov.nl.ca/news/victim-identified-in-decades-old-cold-case/
