The haunting cold case of the “Buckskin Girl” remained unsolved for over three decades—until DNA technology revealed her true identity in 2018. Here’s the heartbreaking story of Marcia Lenore King.
A Cold Case That Haunted Ohio for Decades
In April 1981, the body of a young woman was found lying in a ditch along Greenlee Road in Newton Township, Ohio. She was wearing a distinctive buckskin poncho, which led investigators and the media to refer to her as “The Buckskin Girl.”
From the beginning, detectives were puzzled. The woman had suffered severe injuries to her head and neck, followed by strangulation—a brutal and senseless crime. Investigators believed she had been killed about 48 hours before her body was discovered.
Despite tireless work from law enforcement, her identity remained a mystery for over 37 years.
Who Was the Buckskin Girl?
It wasn’t until April 9, 2018, that a breakthrough finally came. Thanks to advances in forensic DNA analysis and the help of the Miami Valley Regional Crime Laboratory, the young woman was positively identified as Marcia Lenore King, a 21-year-old from Little Rock, Arkansas.
Marcia had last been seen by her family in 1980. Although she was never officially reported missing, her loved ones never stopped searching and hoping for answers.
The Power of DNA Technology
The identification of Marcia King was made possible by detailed and sophisticated DNA testing and genealogical research. Her remains were compared to a national DNA database, and with the help of experts in forensic genealogy, her identity was finally restored.
This case serves as a powerful reminder of how science can bring closure to families, even decades after a tragedy.
Justice Still Unserved
While Marcia’s identity has been revealed, the person responsible for her death has still not been found. Her case remains open, and law enforcement officials continue to seek leads.
Marcia’s story is a heartbreaking but important one—because every life matters, and every victim deserves to be known and remembered.
🕯 In Memory of Marcia Lenore King
1960 – 1981
You are no longer a mystery. You are loved, you are missed, and you are remembered.