Human remains discovered in the Nevada desert have been identified as Edward Lelburian “Buddy” Jackson, a murder victim dating back to the 1980s, authorities announced Thursday. The discovery brings new clarity to a cold case that remained unresolved for nearly four years.

Jackson’s remains were found on May 1, 2022, inside a barrel near Hemenway Harbor at Lake Mead, where persistent drought conditions have significantly lowered water levels. At the time of discovery, the area was normally submerged underwater, with officials noting that the shoreline would have been beneath roughly 100 feet of water about four decades ago.

Clark County Coroner Melanie Rouse confirmed that Jackson was in his mid- to late 50s when he died from a single gunshot wound to the head. His identity had remained unknown for years despite the recovery of his remains among several others found in the region during the summer of 2022.

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department homicide Lieutenant Robert Price provided additional background on Jackson, stating he was originally from Arkansas and had resided in California with his wife during the early 1970s. Jackson also lived in Utah, where he had a documented criminal history in the early 1980s. Police said he had no known children and was last seen visiting relatives in Arkansas around the time of his death. Currently, there are no established ties linking Jackson to the Las Vegas area.

Authorities have continued to investigate the circumstances surrounding Jackson’s murder. Although there was speculation about potential connections to organized crime—particularly given the timing as mob influence waned in Las Vegas—investigators have found no evidence supporting this theory.

The identification process involved collaboration with multiple forensic and scientific institutions. Following the initial discovery, the FBI laboratory in Virginia generated composite images of Jackson’s face based on the remains, which were distributed publicly in late 2023 alongside photographs of the clothing and shoes recovered with the body, items that corresponded with late 1970s and early 1980s fashion. These details were posted to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons database.

DNA testing played a crucial role in solving the case. Early genealogy profiling conducted by DNA Labs International yielded a potential match that was ultimately inconclusive. The investigation continued until the forensic team at Oklahoma State University provided a compelling DNA match in late 2025. Subsequent review and verification by law enforcement, including confirmation by Jackson’s family members, finalized the identification.

Lieutenant Price emphasized that homicide detectives remain committed to uncovering the full story behind Jackson’s death. He also acknowledged the critical contributions of the coroner’s office and forensic experts whose efforts culminated in identifying the long-missing victim.