Human remains found in Chicago identified nearly 14 years later

Nearly 14 years later, a Chicago cold case has been resolved. 

Remains of an unidentified man were found under the Edens Expressway (I-94) overpass of Cicero Avenue on February 18, 2012. Foul play was not suspected, according to Illinois State Police; however, it took until January 20, 2026, for the remains to get identified.

ISP said forensic genealogy testing and collaboration with the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed the man's identity as 64-year-old Ronald M. Risher.

The exact cause and manner of death could not be determined due to decomposition; however, ISP said exposure to cold was a contributing factor in his death.