Remains Found in 1986 in Gilmer County Identified as Homicide Victim

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) and FBI have identified human remains discovered in August 1986 as those of homicide victim David Clary.

Hunters found the remains on August 9, 1986, in a wooded area south of Ellijay in Gilmer County. The Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office requested assistance from the GBI, and an autopsy determined the death was a homicide. Investigators pursued multiple leads over the years but were unable to identify the victim.

In February 2024, the GBI Regional Investigative Office in Cleveland and the GBI Cold Case Unit partnered with the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council and Othram, Inc., a Texas-based forensic DNA lab, to conduct advanced DNA testing. Through forensic-grade genome sequencing and genealogical research, investigators identified the remains as belonging to David Clary. The Clary family was notified in February 2025.

Clary, who grew up in the Charlotte, North Carolina area, frequently traveled to Metro Atlanta and North Georgia. His last known location was in Gwinnett County before his death.

The criminal investigation into Clary’s homicide remains active.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the GBI Regional Investigative Office in Cleveland at (706) 348-4866, the GBI Cold Case Unit at (404) 239-2106, or the Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office at (706) 635-4646. Anonymous tips can be submitted via the GBI Tip Line at 1-800-597-TIPS (8477) or online at gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online.

The investigation is receiving additional support from the York County Sheriff’s Office and Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office in South Carolina, the Alexander County Sheriff’s Office in North Carolina, and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.