For almost 20 years, the identity of a body found in Moncton remained a mystery.
The Codiac Regional RCMP began an investigation in 2007 after an adult male was found dead.
Investigators ruled there was no foul play, but despite their efforts, the person’s identity remained unknown.
Numerous avenues were pursued over the years to ID the body – releasing modified images to the public, working with the RCMP’s National Centre for Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains (NCMPUR), working with Interpol, and comparing DNA and fingerprints with databases across Canada and around the world.
In July 2025, the NCMPUR helped Codiac RCMP with forensic investigative genetic genealogy.
It’s an emerging investigative technique combining DNA analysis, genealogical research and traditional police work to help identify unknown people.
With assistance from the province’s coroner, the NCMPUR and the Toronto Police Service, investigators were able to finally identify the individual as William Dean “Billy” Mackay.
“For more than 20 years we wondered what had happened to our brother Billy,” Mackay’s sister Linda Mackay said in a statement. “Thanks to the impressive work and excellent co-operation among the team of police, coroner’s office and DNA specialists, we are grateful to finally have the answer.”
Codiac RCMP Staff Sgt. Sylvette Hebert said the identification brought closure to Mackay’s family.
“We are grateful to our policing and investigative partners whose collaboration, dedication and expertise helped make this possible,” she said.
