DNA samples sought to help connect unidentified remains to families

FLINT, MI -- Residents with a long-term missing family member are urged to attend an event in Flint later this month aimed at providing them with some form of closure. 

The ID the Missing event set from noon-4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15 at Berston Field House, 3300 N. Saginaw St., seeks to assist the families of missing persons by collecting DNA samples. 

The samples collected via a cheek swab will then be used to try and identify unidentified remains located at medical examiner's office throughout the state of Michigan, according to a social media post on the event.

Those looking to participate are asked to bring at least two biological family members of the missing person and any identifying medical documents to the event. 

The event is being held by Michigan State Police in partnership with the Genesee County Medical Examiner's Office, National Missing and Unidentified Persons System, and Crime Stoppers of Flint & Genesee County. 

Anyone seeking additional information about the event is asked to email the Michigan State Police Missing Persons Coordination Unit at MSP-MissingPersons@michigan.gov.