(From a press release)
The Montgomery County Coroner’s Office has confirmed the identity of skeletal remains discovered in Towamencin Township earlier this year. The remains have been identified as those of Isaias Hernandez-Geronimo, a 34-year-old male who had recently moved to the United States.
On March 18, 2024, a surveyor working in a small, wooded area in Towamencin Township came across a human skull. Upon discovery, the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office, in collaboration with local law enforcement, promptly secured the scene and began a thorough investigation.
“Identifying skeletal remains is a meticulous process involving forensic anthropology, dental records (if available), DNA analysis, and other investigative techniques,” said Dr. Janine Darby, Montgomery County Coroner. “Since the discovery, we have been working diligently with forensic experts to establish the identity of the remains.”
The identification of Isaias Hernandez-Geronimo was made possible through DNA testing. Mr. Geronimo is survived by his wife, children, and extended family.
Based on conversations with the family and evidence gathered from the site, there is no indication of suspicious activity leading to Mr. Geronimo’s death. However, the cause and manner of death will be documented as Undetermined at this time.
“The family of Isaias Hernandez-Geronimo was notified of the identification prior to this announcement. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends during this difficult time,” said Darby. “The expeditious nature of identifying the decedent was due to the prompt action taken by several teams and cooperative engagement across agencies.”
The Coroner’s Office would like to acknowledge the following individuals and teams for their contributions:
- The Coroner’s Office Team: Investigation led by First Deputy Casey McAlpine
- Towamencin Township Police Department: Officer Michael McCarrick, Sergeant Paul Wiechec
- Montgomery County Detective Bureau: Detectives Jack Wittenberger, Daniel Cha, David Schanes, Edward Nelson, Lieutenant Edward Schikel, Lieutenant Todd Richard
- Forensic Specialists: Dr. Ian Hood, Dr. Anna Delaney, and Dr. John Nase
- Guardian Forensic Lab: Arthur Young and Katherine Cross
The Montgomery County Coroner’s Office also expresses its gratitude to the family of Isaias Hernandez-Geronimo for their patience and cooperation in helping piece together the information needed for identification.
