Cold case: DNA links human skull found in 1991 to case involving missing 4-year-old boy

WASHINGTON (TND) — DNA has linked a human skull that was found along a hiking trail in California more than 30 years ago to a cold case involving missing 4-year-old boy, according to authorities.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department on Thursday said a murder investigation from 1991 has now reignited.

The department identified the child as Derrick Burton.

In a news release, the sheriff's office said a hunter discovered the skull -- without teeth or mandible -- in Mentone on Oct. 27, 1991.

A homicide investigation was launched and authorities searched the area.

"A torn plastic trash bag with decomposition odor and child’s clothing was located and kept for evidence," according to the release. "The remains could not be identified, and no further leads were discovered at the time."

About a week later, a coroner determined the skull belonged to a child between 4 and 8 years old.

"The cause of death was undetermined," the release noted. "No other leads were available, and the case went cold."

But in 2022, DNA from the skull was sent to Othram Inc., a DNA sequencing and genomics laboratory.

"In February of 2023, Othram revealed distant genetic relatives to the decedent located in Houston, TX. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Detail contacted the genetic relatives and received consent for their DNA for further testing," the release noted, adding that Patricia Clark was identified as the child’s mother.

Authorities contacted Clark and learned she reported the boy missing in 1991 -- but he was never found.

"Clark’s DNA was obtained and sent to FTDNA which revealed Clark was a 100% parental match to the human remains of the child Doe, now known to be Derrick Burton," the release noted.

The sheriff's office asked anyone who has information about the case to contact them at 909-890-4904. To remain anonymous, call We-Tip at 800-78CRIME or visit www.wetip.com.