News Summary
DNA testing has finally confirmed the identity of remains found 28 years ago in Plymouth Township as Benjamin Harrison Fountain. Using advanced genetic analysis from Othram, investigators linked the remains to Fountain, who was believed to be a victim of homicide. The remains have been stored since their discovery in 1997, and the continued investigation underscores the collaboration between law enforcement and forensic science experts, representing a significant breakthrough in cold cases in Michigan.
Detroit
DNA testing has confirmed the identity of a deceased individual whose remains were discovered 28 years ago in Plymouth Township, Michigan, as Benjamin Harrison Fountain. The identification was made possible through advanced genetic analysis techniques provided by Othram, a Texas-based lab specializing in forensic DNA technology.
The skeletal remains were initially found in May 1997 by a man surveying a property off Haggerty Road. The remains were wrapped in a rolled-up carpet, and several articles of clothing and jewelry were found alongside them, including a gold class ring and a .357 slug. The investigation revealed that these remains belonged to an adult male, estimated to have been approximately 5 feet, 8 inches tall and of slim build.
Despite initial investigations, authorities struggled to identify Fountain for decades. Traditional DNA testing conducted in 2015 yielded no viable matches, and the cause of death was ruled a homicide, likely related to a head injury. The case remained open but inactive for years until Plymouth Township Police reopened it in 2022.
In partnership with Othram, investigators were able to extract DNA from the remains and create an ultra-sensitive comprehensive DNA profile. This profile indicated that the individual was of African descent. Through extensive genealogical research, investigators identified potential relatives, leading to the eventual confirmation of the identity of the remains as Benjamin Harrison Fountain.
Fountain was born on May 6, 1926, in Virginia and later moved to West Virginia before settling in Detroit. If he had been alive at the time his remains were discovered, he would have been in his early 70s. Fountain’s skeletal remains had been stored at the Wayne County Medical Examiner’s Office since their discovery, and he was buried on May 16, 2025, at Our Lady of Hope Cemetery in Brownstown, Michigan.
The ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding Fountain’s death continues, as authorities urge anyone with relevant information to contact the Plymouth Township Police Department at 734-354-3250. This development represents a significant advancement in the application of DNA technology in cold cases, marking the 19th identified case using Othram’s technology in Michigan.
The discovery of Fountain’s remains and their subsequent identification underscores the critical importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies and forensic science experts. As more cases are reopened and examined through modern methodologies, the chances of bringing closure to families and justice for victims may improve significantly.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 2 Detroit
- Wikipedia: Forensic Science
- Click On Detroit
- Google Search: DNA testing in cold cases
- Hometown Life
- Google Scholar: DNA profiling forensic cases
- The Detroit News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: DNA Analysis
- MLive
- Google News: Benjamin Harrison Fountain
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
