FDLE Identifies Human Remains Recovered After Hurricane Irma

By Staff Reporter

iSkyNews.com (ISC News) – Published January 21st, 2026

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FDLE Identifies Human Remains Recovered After Hurricane Irma

MONROE COUNTY, Fla. — Nearly eight years after Hurricane Irma devastated the Florida Keys, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement has confirmed the identity of human remains recovered in the storm’s aftermath.

According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), the remains have been identified as James Donald Schlake, 77, of Key Largo.

The remains were discovered on September 14, 2017, in a debris pile on Big Pine Key during search-and-rescue operations following Hurricane Irma. Due to the advanced state of decomposition at the time, investigators were unable to determine the man’s identity. An autopsy later concluded that Schlake died by drowning, and the manner of death was ruled accidental.

The identification was made possible through advanced genetic genealogy, conducted by FDLE’s Forensic Services in collaboration with Othram Inc., a private DNA laboratory that specializes in advanced DNA sequencing and genetic genealogy. Funding for the analysis was secured through the State Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy Grant Fund, on behalf of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and the Monroe County Medical Examiner.

“FDLE’s Key West Field Office and Forensic Services turned over every stone to identify Mr. Schlake,” said FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass. “Our statewide forensic resources and strong partnerships are critical to supporting Florida’s communities and law enforcement agencies. This collaboration helped bring long-awaited answers to Mr. Schlake’s loved ones and to the Florida Keys community.”

Kristen Mittelman, Chief Development Officer for Othram, highlighted the impact of advancing forensic technology.

“People should know that it doesn't matter how old a case is,” Mittelman said. “If there is DNA, there is technology here today that works and is able to bring answers to families, like in this case. This is powerful technology, and cases like this can absolutely be solved.”

After an initial DNA submission to FDLE crime laboratories in December 2023 produced no leads, a new sample was forwarded to Othram in June 2025 for advanced DNA sequencing. By December 2025, investigators identified potential genetic relatives, confirmed Schlake’s identity, and notified his next of kin.

FDLE says the case highlights its continued commitment to using modern forensic tools and strong partnerships to solve long-unsolved cases, bring closure to families, and strengthen public safety statewide.

Stay tuned to iSkyNews.com for the latest Florida news.

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