The identity of human remains discovered in Bristol, New Hampshire, has been established after four decades of uncertainty. Authorities announced the development on Thursday, confirming that the remains, initially found in 1986, belong to Warren Kuchinsky.

Kuchinsky, who was born in 1952, was last known to be alive in the mid-1970s. Investigators emphasized that there are no signs indicating foul play in connection with his demise. The initial discovery of a human skull in a wooded area of Bristol sparked a lengthy investigation, but the identity of the individual remained unknown for many years.

In a significant breakthrough, the New Hampshire Office of the Chief Medical Examiner collaborated with the DNA Doe Project last year. Using forensic genetic genealogy methods, they were able to make a connection that led to the identification of Kuchinsky through DNA comparisons with a family member.