Human remains found in the Lower Keys following Hurricane Irma have been identified more than eight years later as a Key Largo man.
On Jan. 21, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) said the human remains recovered in the aftermath of the 2017 hurricane were confirmed as those of 77-year-old James Donald Schlake. FDLE assisted in the identification alongside Othram Inc., a DNA laboratory that uses advanced DNA sequencing and genetic genealogy research to help agencies resolve cases and identify the deceased.
The identification was made through advanced genetic genealogy facilitated by FDLE’s Forensic Services.
“FDLE’s Key West Field Office and Forensic Services turned over every stone to identify Mr. Schlake,” said FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass. “Our statewide forensic resources and strong partnerships are critical to supporting Florida’s communities and law enforcement agencies. This collaboration helped bring long‑awaited answers to Mr. Schlake’s loved ones and to the Florida Keys community.”
On Sept. 14, 2017, the body of an unidentified adult male was found in a debris pile near Second Street on Big Pine Key during search‑and‑rescue operations following Hurricane Irma. Due to the advanced state of decomposition, investigators were unable to identify him at the time. Following an autopsy, the Monroe County Medical Examiner determined the cause of death to be drowning and ruled the manner of death accidental.
In December 2023, a sample was submitted to FDLE’s crime laboratories for analysis and searching with no leads obtained. In June 2025, a sample was forwarded to Othram Inc. for advanced DNA sequencing and genetic genealogy research. In December 2025, after potential genetic relatives were identified, investigators confirmed the remains as those of Schlake and notified the next of kin.
“People should know that it doesn’t matter how old a case is, if there is DNA, there is technology here today that works and is able to bring answers to families, like in this case,” said Kristen Mittelman, Chief Development Officer for Othram, the company that analyzed the DNA. “This is powerful technology, and cases like this can absolutely be solved.”
FDLE Forensics secured funding for the identification through the State Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy Grant Fund on behalf of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and the Monroe County Medical Examiner.
