A new computer algorithm is helping the FBI to identify bodies found decades ago

Using a new computer algorithm has helped FBI to help identify corpses found decades ago. For now, FBI has studied the fingerprints of some 1,500 corpses and successfully managed to identify 204 fingerprints which were already on file.

The FBI has also asked local authorities to review their files and send old cases and pieces of evidence (damaged or partial) that were previously unusable for identification.

This technique also allowed the authorities to identify John Downey, 39, whose decomposed body was found in 1984. His family in Houston was relieved to finally know what happened to their relative way back in 1984.