The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) has identified the female skeletal remains that were found in 2007 in Sarasota County as Jeana Burrus. The SCSO is now seeking information from anyone familiar with Jeana Burrus or her husband, James Burrus.
In February 2007, the skeletal remains of a female were discovered buried in a shallow grave in a wooded area of Ashton Ct. in Sarasota. For many years, the circumstances surrounding the death remained a mystery. However, in November 2022, the SCSO, in collaboration with DNA Labs International Inc., was able to make a positive identification using advancements in DNA testing and genetic genealogy.
The victim, Jeana Lynn Burrus, was determined to be 39 years old at the time of her death. She lived with her husband and son, James Burrus Jr., in the 6200 block of Pauline Avenue in Sarasota. Jeana was unemployed, while her husband worked at a local body shop in the 5600 block of Sarah Avenue in Sarasota. Their son attended Gulf Gate Elementary School from 2005-2006.
What makes the investigation into Jeana’s death even more perplexing is that she was never reported missing by her family, and her whereabouts were never questioned. The couple had previously lived in Citrus County, Florida, and Frederick, Maryland, before relocating to Sarasota County. The SCSO is now urging anyone who may have known Jeana or James Burrus, or has any information regarding her death, to contact SCSO Detective Brian Ng at 941.861.4900.
This case has garnered attention for the extensive amount of time it took to identify the remains and the mysterious circumstances surrounding Jeana’s death. The use of modern DNA technology has played a crucial role in finally bringing some closure to the case. By utilizing current advancements in DNA testing and genetic genealogy, the SCSO and DNA Labs International Inc. were able to identify Jeana Burrus, giving her family some answers after years of uncertainty.
It remains unclear why Jeana’s death went unnoticed and unreported for so long. The SCSO is hoping that by reaching out to the public, they can gather more information about Jeana and James Burrus and potentially uncover more details about the circumstances surrounding Jeana’s death.
In recent years, advancements in DNA testing and genetic genealogy have revolutionized cold case investigations. Many cases that were once thought to be unsolvable have now found resolution through the use of these technologies. The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is just one example of law enforcement agencies utilizing these tools to bring answers and justice to victims and their families.
It is crucial for the public to come forward with any information they may have about Jeana Burrus and her husband. Even the smallest piece of information could be significant in solving this case and providing closure for Jeana’s family.
If you have any information about Jeana Burrus or James Burrus, or if you have any information regarding Jeana’s death, please contact SCSO Detective Brian Ng at 941.861.4900. Your help could make a significant difference in solving this case and bringing justice to Jeana Burrus and her family.
Cases like these serve as a reminder that no matter how much time has passed, it is never too late for the truth to come to light. The persistence and dedication of law enforcement agencies, coupled with advancements in technology, give hope that justice can be served for victims and their families, even years after the crime has been committed.
The identification of the remains of Jeana Burrus is a significant breakthrough in this case. It is a testament to the power of modern DNA testing and genetic genealogy in solving cold cases. The SCSO and DNA Labs International Inc. should be commended for their efforts in bringing answers and closure to Jeana’s family.
As the investigation into Jeana’s death continues, it is important for the public to remain vigilant and come forward with any information that could assist law enforcement in solving this case. Together, we can work towards achieving justice for Jeana Burrus and her family.
