Remains found in Utah desert 28 years ago with help of a psychic finally identified through DNA genealogy

The man, identified as Pedro Calderon Marioni, had likely been dead for two years by the time he was found in 1998, the Garfield County Sheriff's Office said in an announcement on Monday.

"This identification demonstrates the value of persistence, collaboration, and advancements in forensic science," Garfield County Sheriff's Office Sgt. Tom Talbot said in a news release. "Most importantly, it provides long-awaited answers to a family that has lived for decades without knowing the fate of their loved one."

Investigators didn't find a link between Marioni's remains and the fugitives.

Personal items were found near his remains, including cowboy boots, a bathrobe, a Ford truck key and a long-distance calling card.

His remains were taken to the Utah Officer of the Medical Examiner but couldn't be identified despite extensive investigation, and he became known as "Garfield County John Doe."

After reviewing historical records, locating potential family members and doing multiple interviews, his possible sister was identified in May. 

She gave investigators a sample that confirmed Marioni was her brother.

The three suspects in the murder of Officer Dale Claxton died by suicide after they were located by investigators.