Human remains discovered in Walnut Creek belonged to an Olean woman who was reported missing last year.

According to the Milcreek Township Police Department, the remains belonged to Rebecca (Foley) Hakes. Relatives reported Hakes missing during the third quarter of 2024.

The remains were discovered on Oct. 24, 2024, near the northern edge of the Millcreek Mall property. 

An autopsy determined that the remains were those of an adult female who showed no sign of trauma or natural disease. 

Millcreek police partnered with Othram Inc., a Texas-based company specializing in forensic genetic genealogy. DNA extracted from the remains was analyzed and compared to publicly accessible DNA profiles. Genealogists at Othram and investigators from Millcreek Township Police and the Erie (Pa.) Police Department collaborated to build potential genetic networks connected to the remains.

As possible relatives were identified, investigators conducted numerous phone interviews in search of individuals willing to provide DNA samples. A genetic network centered around McKean and Potter counties in Pennsylvania and Cattaraugus County in New York was eventually identified. Following additional interviews, two DNA samples were submitted to Othram by potential relatives.

Those samples allowed Othram to conclusively identify the remains as belonging to Hakes.