FLOWOOD, Miss. (WJTV) – Flowood police announced the human remains that were discovered by a fishermen at a pond on May 5, 2024, have been identified.

Rankin County Coroner David Ruth identified the remains as those of Stephen Jason Rosa, 53, of Ridgeland.

Ridgeland police had been conducting an active missing persons investigation

on Rosa since he was last seen alive on November 23, 2023.

The remains were sent to the Mississippi State Crime Lab for a preliminary examination. Police said forensic specialists transferred the remains to Othram DNA Lab in The Woodlands, Texas. Advanced DNA testing and forensic genealogy analysis conducted by Othram led to the positive identification of Rosa.

Flowood police are investigating the circumstances surrounding Rosa’s death. Anyone with information regarding the case can contact the Flowood Police Department at 601-932-5400.