RCMP identify remains found in Moncton area in 2007 as Billy Mackay

The Codiac Regional RCMP have identified human remains found in the Moncton, New Brunswick, area in 2007 as those of William Dean “Billy” Mackay. Police announced in June 2026 that the identification ended a case that had gone unsolved for nearly 20 years.

The remains of an adult man were found in the Moncton area in 2007. Investigators concluded at the time that there was no indication of foul play in his death. Despite extensive investigative work in Canada and abroad, police were unable to identify him for many years.

Years of efforts to identify the man

According to the Codiac Regional RCMP, investigators tried several methods over the years to put a name to the man, including:

• releasing modified images of the deceased to the public in hopes of generating leads;
• working with the RCMP National Centre for Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains (NCMPUR);
• collaborating with INTERPOL and comparing profiles in Canadian and international databases; and
• checking DNA and fingerprint records against multiple investigative databases.

Forensic genetic genealogy

In July 2025, NCMPUR began supporting the Codiac Regional RCMP with Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG), a method that combines DNA analysis with genealogical research and conventional police work. The RCMP said the technique is applied in line with strict legal, privacy and ethical safeguards.

With help from the New Brunswick Coroner’s Office, NCMPUR and the Toronto Police Service, investigators positively identified the man as William Dean “Billy” Mackay within about a year of starting to use FIGG.

Family notified

Mackay’s family has been informed of the identification. Police said the family has expressed gratitude for the work of police, forensic specialists and the coroner’s office.

The RCMP said the case shows how new investigative technologies, combined with co-operation between agencies across provinces and with international partners, can help resolve long-standing files. The force said it continues to examine the careful use of emerging tools, including FIGG, in appropriate cases involving unidentified human remains, within established legal and ethical frameworks.

This story is based on information released by the RCMP.