Florida teen missing for over a decade identified after DNA testing

Walton County officials announced that human remains found in Miramar Beach in October 2022 have been identified as Jacob Lyon, who was reported missing in 2016; the cause of death remains undetermined and the investigation is ongoing.

Authorities in Walton County, Florida, announced on Jan. 26 that human remains found in 2022 have been identified as Jacob Lyon, who was reported missing in 2016. The remains were discovered in Miramar Beach on Oct. 20, 2022. Lyon's mother reported him missing in February 2016 after she had not seen him for about three months. The District 1 Medical Examiner sought additional testing and samples were sent to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, where DNA analysis led to the identification. Known details: - Human remains were located at Miramar Beach on Oct. 20, 2022, by a person clearing a wooded area. - The Walton County Sheriff's Office announced the remains were identified as Jacob Lyon on Jan. 26. - Lyon had been reported missing in February 2016 at age 19 after not being seen for several months. - The District 1 Medical Examiner requested FDLE testing toward the end of 2024; DNA testing was complex and took time. - Officials say the cause of death remains undetermined and the Walton County Sheriff's Office is continuing the investigation with the Niceville Police Department. Summary: The identification provides Lyon's family with confirmation after a long investigation but does not yet explain how he died. Authorities reported they will review the location, past reports, and other evidence as they continue their work with local police. Undetermined at this time.