A victim of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre has been identified as C.L. Daniel, a World War I veteran, through DNA genealogy, Tulsa officials announced. The remains were found during an archaeological dig at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Mayor G.T. Bynum revealed the victim's identity at a news conference, stating that Daniel's family was unaware of his burial location for the past 103 years until this recent discovery.
Using data from GEDmatch and Family Tree DNA, along with assistance from Intermountain Forensics, officials were able to identify Daniel. A letter from the National Archives also played a significant role in confirming his identity.
The circumstances surrounding Daniel's death remain unknown, as his remains did not show any signs of gunshot wounds, according to Bynum.
The letter from C.L.'s family attorney to the US Veterans Administration, found in the National Archives, provided compelling evidence linking him to the Tulsa Race Massacre.
Bynum expressed hope that the identification of Daniel would pave the way for identifying other unidentified victims found in similar circumstances.
Officials have confirmed through written documentation that 18 victims remain unidentified and buried. This recent identification underscores the importance of continuing the search for these victims with the belief that identification and reunification are achievable goals.
The ongoing 1921 Graves Investigation aims to identify the unknown victims of the Tulsa Race Massacre through archaeological digs and DNA analysis.
