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Mystery of Florida teenager missing for over a decade solved after huge DNA breakthrough
The discovery of skeletal remains in a wooded area of Miramar Beach, Florida, in 2022 has led to the identification of a young man who went missing more than a decade ago. The remains were found by a man clearing the area on October 20, 2022.
After nearly two years of investigation, the Walton County Sheriff's Office (WCSO) confirmed in January 2025 that the remains belonged to 19-year-old Jacob Lyon.
Per ABC affiliate WMBB, Lyon was last seen in November 2015, and his mother reported him missing several months later, in February 2016. Authorities worked for years to track down any leads but were unable to locate him.
Despite the years of uncertainty, Lyon’s family now has an answer, though the news brings with it a sense of sorrow. According to the WCSO, “This is not the result our community hoped for,” but they expressed hope that the family might find peace knowing that Lyon’s remains have been recovered.
Search for Lyon’s whereabouts began in 2015
Jacob Lyon's disappearance began when he left his home in Niceville, Florida, in November 2015. Lyon had been staying with various relatives at the time and had been involuntarily committed to a psychiatric hospital the month before his disappearance.
His mother filed a missing person report in February 2016, prompting a search by the WCSO and the Niceville Police Department. Despite following several tips and leads, authorities were unable to find Lyon.
Lieutenant John Lee of the Niceville Police Department emphasized the importance of finding closure for Lyon’s mother, telling ABC affiliate WMBB, "Ten years is a long time. But Jacob is home. Jake is back with his family, and family can make a little bit of closure."
The search for Lyon finally ended with the discovery of his remains, which were found behind the location of a Sleep Inn that no longer stands, a point that Major Dustin Cosson of the WCSO noted had changed significantly since the time of Lyon’s disappearance.
Cause of death still undetermined
At this time, authorities are still investigating the cause of Lyon’s death. The WCSO continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the remains' discovery and seeks any further information related to the case.
Despite the long period without answers, Lyon’s family can now lay their loved one to rest as they await further clarity on what happened.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Walton County Sheriff's Office at (850)-892-8111.