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DNA genealogy identifies man found in Lake Mead barrel as Edward Jackson
Clark County investigators identified Edward Lelburian Jackson, known as “Buddy,” more than four years after his remains were found near Hemingway Harbor. Police believe he was shot and killed in the early 1980s; the investigation remains open.
More than four years after a barrel containing human remains was found at Lake Mead, investigators have identified the victim as Edward Lelburian Jackson, also known as “Buddy,” Clark County officials said Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026.
Clark County Coroner Melanie Rouse said DNA testing and forensic investigative genealogy led to the identification. After an initial genealogy lead proved inconclusive, the coroner’s office asked Oklahoma State University’s Forensic Sciences Department to continue the work. A DNA sample from a possible relative helped confirm Jackson’s identity.
The National Park Service found the barrel in shallow water near Hemingway Harbor on May 1, 2022. Las Vegas police determined Jackson had been shot once in the head. Clothing found with the remains appeared consistent with styles from the late 1970s and early 1980s, and investigators believe he was killed in the early 1980s. He was thought to be in his mid-to-late 50s when he died.
Jackson’s family told police he was from Arkansas and traveled around the country. Relatives last saw him during a visit to Arkansas in the early 1980s. Investigators found records that he lived in Los Angeles with his wife in the early 1970s and had a brief criminal history in Utah in the early ’80s, but said they have found no connection between him and Las Vegas.
The homicide investigation remains open. Police said they have no information supporting speculation that the killing was linked to organized crime. Anyone who knew Jackson or can provide information about his work or travels is asked to contact the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Homicide Section or Crime Stoppers of Nevada at 702-385-5555.