The Discovery
In a remarkable turn of events, a decade-old cold case in Camden County, Missouri, may finally find resolution. On the morning of December 23, detectives, accompanied by cadaver dogs from Gateway Search Dogs, Inc, returned to a pond in Southern Camden County where Donnie Erwin’s Hyundai Elantra had been recovered on December 16.
Despite extensive searches since then, it was on the morning of December 24 that the cadaver dogs signaled a significant development. Concentrating on a specific area near the center of the pond, the dogs indicated the potential presence of human remains. The investigators, determined to bring closure to a long-standing mystery, returned with divers from the Mid County Fire Protection District.
Recovery of Human Remains
As the divers explored the area pinpointed by the cadaver dogs, they made a chilling discovery—human remains. Alongside these remains, an artificial hip consistent with the one belonging to Donnie Erwin was recovered. While forensic examination is required for confirmation, investigators express confidence that the recovered hip and remains belong to Erwin.
The Camden County Sheriff’s Office immediately notified Erwin’s family about this significant development. In a press release, they conveyed their elation at the recovery and the closure it brings to the family. The sheriff’s office extended gratitude to the countless volunteers who contributed over the years, emphasizing the vital role played by the community in providing leads and essential information.
YouTuber’s Role in the Discovery
The breakthrough in the case came through the efforts of James Hinkle, a videographer and owner of Echo Divers, a YouTube channel dedicated to investigating cold cases across Missouri. Hinkle, utilizing his drone, discovered Erwin’s submerged vehicle in a private pond on December 16.
Sgt. Scott Hines, public information officer with the Camden County Sheriff’s Office, noted the immense relief brought by Hinkle’s discovery. After a decade of virtually zero leads, the community’s involvement and Hinkle’s findings have provided a new avenue for resolution.
Hinkle, who oversees a scuba diving search and rescue team, shared his motivation for assisting in the search, stating, “When I found out that Donnie was a veteran and lived an hour and a half from my home in Clinton, Missouri, I knew I could help with the search.”
Community Relief and Reflections
Lt. Cole Hurst, a rescue diver for Mid-County Fire Protection District, emphasized the significance of the discovery for both the community and those directly involved in the case. The tension surrounding the unresolved mystery, known to the entire community, has now been replaced with hope for closure and justice.
As the forensic examination unfolds to confirm the identity of the recovered remains, the Camden County community reflects on the power of collective efforts and the determination to bring closure to a decade-long ordeal. The discovery serves as a poignant reminder of the vital role that community involvement, technology, and dedicated individuals can play in solving long-standing mysteries.