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News / Northwest

Human remains found along river near Ferndale identified as those of man missing since 2002

By Jack Belcher, The Bellingham Herald
Published: November 7, 2024, 7:34am

BELLINGHAM — Authorities have released the identity of human remains found in 2022 in a bank along the Nooksack River in Ferndale. The remains are those of Mark Jay Hess of Ferndale, who was reported missing in 2002, according to a news release from the city of Ferndale.

This identification was confirmed by a DNA test by the Whatcom County Medical Examiner. The investigation is ongoing, and information regarding this incident is limited at this time.

Hess was 46 when he was reported missing more than 20 years ago, according to The Charlie Project, an organization devoted to solving missing persons cases

Hess’ remains were found buried in a riverbank by workers with the city of Ferndale, who immediately notified police.

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