Remains discovered by kayakers in a Florida canal in May 2024 have been identified as Rose Marie Gayhart, a New York woman who went missing over 40 years ago. DNA testing confirmed the identity, the Cape Coral Police Department announced Friday.
Gayhart, then 23, was reported missing by her parents in Dansville, New York, in March 1985. At the time of her disappearance, she was living and working in the Cape Coral and North Fort Myers area of Florida. She was last known to be working at a Cape Coral restaurant called Big Howie's Hot Dogs.
Months before she vanished, Gayhart had moved to a North Fort Myers trailer park on Christmas Day 1984 with her boyfriend and his mother. Her sister, Laurie Travis, stated that neighbors at the trailer park believed Gayhart was murdered, citing frequent disturbances and arguments.
Some neighbors also suggested Gayhart may have been pregnant and attempting to return home, but her boyfriend prevented her departure. Travis recounted a letter from the boyfriend's mother that indicated Gayhart was not welcome and was being sent back to her mother, but she never arrived.
The discovery of the remains by kayakers in a canal in northeast Cape Coral led to the identification through DNA testing, with assistance from the District 21 Medical Examiner’s Office and the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office in New York, which provided familial DNA.
Cape Coral Police Chief Anthony Sizemore stated that the case is now considered an active homicide investigation. "No matter how much time passes, even after four decades, our investigations do not stop, and our pursuit of justice does not end," Sizemore said. "This is now considered an active homicide investigation, and we are committed to following every lead."
Gayhart's family has sought answers for over 40 years. "While this identification brings long-awaited answers, it also strengthens our resolve," Sizemore added. The police department is urging anyone with information regarding Gayhart's case to contact them at 239-574-3223.