A 23-year-old cold case in central Missouri has a resolution.
Skeletal remains found March 3 in a wooded area near Rolla have been identified as Eugene Cerney, who disappeared from his Phelps County home in June 2000 at age 56.
Cerney had told family he planned a bicycle trip to St. Robert, after which he was never seen again.
A bicycle was found near the remains, and portions of the skull were examined by forensic odontologist Dr. Eric Wilson, who matched Cerney to the dental records.
The investigation was a joint effort involving Phelps County investigators, the county coroner, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Rolla Police, and Rolla Rural Fire Protection District, which provided substantial logistical support.
The sheriff’s department announced the identification on Facebook.