New York State Police have identified a headless and handsless man whose body was found along a remote stretch of road in southwestern New York State more than five decades ago, using DNA technology to solve a mystery that has lingered for 56 years.
The breakthrough identification of Clyde A. Coppage, who was 35 years old when he died, brings a name to one of the most puzzling cold cases in the region's history — a case that for decades remained completely unsolved with no suspect, no motive and no clear cause of death.
Background
Coppage was living in Genessee, Pennsylvania, when he disappeared in early 1970, according to New York State Police. He was not originally from the area and was never reported missing, leaving investigators with no leads on his identity or what may have happened to him.
On March 20, 1970, a passerby discovered the nude body along Davis Hill Road in the village of Andover, roughly 16 miles north of Genessee. The victim had been decapitated and his hands removed, a level of dismemberment that suggested the killing occurred elsewhere and the body was transported to the remote location.
The case went unsolved for more than 50 years, with little progress until investigators exhumed the body in 2022 and submitted it for advanced DNA analysis.
The Investigation
New York State Police partnered with the FBI to conduct forensic DNA testing on the exhumed remains. The investigation spanned several years as scientists worked to develop a genetic profile that could be compared against missing persons databases and genealogical records.
Trooper James O'Callaghan told the Albany Times Union that the victim was nude when discovered, and forensic evidence indicated he had been killed and dismembered elsewhere before being dumped along the rural road in Andover.
Investigators have not released a cause of death, and no suspects have been identified in the case. The violent nature of the killing — with decapitation and removal of both hands — suggests the perpetrator went to significant lengths to prevent identification of both the victim and potentially themselves.
New York State Police are asking anyone with information about Clyde A. Coppage or his death to contact the Barracks in Bath at 585-344-6200.
Key Takeaways
- Clyde A. Coppage, 35, identified through DNA testing 56 years after his death
- Body found March 20, 1970 along Davis Hill Road in Andover, New York
- Coppage was living in Genessee, Pennsylvania when he disappeared; never reported missing
- Body exhumed in 2022; DNA work conducted by state police and FBI
- Victim was nude when found; evidence suggests killed and dismembered elsewhere
- Investigators have not released cause of death; no suspects identified
- Anyone with information asked to contact New York State Police at 585-344-6200
What's Next
The identification of Coppage marks a significant milestone in the decades-old case, but investigators face a long road ahead. With no known suspects and the passage of more than 50 years, building a prosecutable case will present substantial challenges.
State police continue to seek public assistance, urging anyone who knew Coppage or has information about his death to come forward. The case remains active, and investigators are exploring whether any individuals who were alive in 1970 and may have information about the killing are still available to interview.
The use of DNA technology in cold cases has grown increasingly sophisticated in recent years, and this identification may prompt renewed attention on other unsolved homicides from the era that remain open.