Senate commends Carla Davis for solving Mississippi cold cases through genetic genealogy

In a significant move to honor contributions to public safety and victim identification, the Mississippi State Legislature has adopted Senate Resolution 25, commending Carla Davis, a genetic genealogist and philanthropist, for her extensive work with law enforcement in solving unsolved murder cases. Introduced on February 17, 2025, the resolution highlights Davis's commitment to providing closure for families of unidentified victims in Mississippi.

Carla Davis, who currently resides in Dubai but maintains ties to her home state, has emerged as a pivotal figure in the field of forensic genetic genealogy. As the Chief Genetic Genealogist at Othram, Inc., she leads a team dedicated to utilizing advanced genetic technology to tackle complex cases involving unidentified remains and violent crimes. Her personal journey into genetic genealogy began with her own quest for identity, which fueled her passion for helping others facing similar challenges.

The resolution underscores Davis's philanthropic efforts, particularly her advocacy for funding advanced genetic techniques in under-resourced law enforcement agencies. With approximately 60 unidentified remains cases in Mississippi, Davis has pledged to fund DNA evidence testing for each case, aiming to resolve them before extending her efforts to other states. To date, she has successfully funded eight cases, leading to the identification of victims such as Kimberly Funk and Anderson Bolls, who had remained nameless for decades.

Davis's work has not only brought resolution to 18 families but has also highlighted the potential of genetic genealogy in addressing cold case backlogs. Her efforts have sparked discussions about the importance of funding and resources for law enforcement, particularly in states like Mississippi, where such initiatives can significantly impact community safety and justice.

The adoption of Senate Resolution 25 reflects a growing recognition of the role that innovative technologies and dedicated individuals play in the pursuit of justice. As Mississippi continues to grapple with its cold case challenges, Davis's commitment serves as a beacon of hope for families seeking answers and closure. The resolution not only honors her contributions but also emphasizes the need for ongoing support and funding for forensic advancements in the state.