Timothy William‑Michal Fortney, a 22‑year‑old white male from Ottumwa, Iowa, was last heard from on March 18, 2018, via Facebook Messenger. After that message, his profile fell silent and he ceased all digital activity. At the time of his disappearance, he was approximately 6 ft tall weighed around 150–165 lbs, with brown eyes and brown hair. His family did not report him missing until August 28, 2019, more than one year after his last known contact.
In 2021, his case was entered into the NamUs database under MP‑81668. Authorities learned that at the time he disappeared, Fortney had been staying at the Ottumwa Residential Facility, a correctional or residential care facility in Ottumwa, Iowa. The significant delay in reporting—over a year—delayed the formal investigation and initial search efforts.
In February 2022, Van Buren County authorities recovered a human femur bone along the Des Moines River near Keosauqua, Iowa. Anthropological assessment indicated it belonged to an adult male, and the condition suggested forensic, not archaeological, significance. No additional remains were found despite further searches of the area.
The unidentified remains were entered into NamUs as “Des Moines River John Doe.” Initial attempts at traditional DNA extraction were unsuccessful. Investigators later partnered with Southeast Missouri State University and forensic genetics lab Othram. SEMO students applied non‑destructive chemical analyses as part of a broader study, and evidence was sent to Othram in Texas for advanced Forensic‑Grade Genome Sequencing. Othram’s team constructed a DNA profile and used genetic genealogy techniques to compare with reference samples provided by potential family members of Fortney.
By late December 2024, the identity of the John Doe had been confirmed as Timothy William‑Michal Fortney. This marked the first case in Iowa publicly resolved using Othram’s technology. While identification was a major breakthrough, authorities emphasized that uncovering the full circumstances surrounding Fortney’s disappearance and death remains a priority. The Ottumwa Police Department continues to investigate, seeking any information to piece together what happened to him.
Investigators note that identification is only part of the puzzle. The next phase is determining how Fortney ended up deceased along the Des Moines River. Detective Jordan Staton and Lt. Jason Bell with the Ottumwa Police Department have invited the public to come forward with any details, however minor, that might aid in resolving unanswered questions. As of now, the cause, timing, and full sequence of events remain undetermined and under review.
That is the current status of the missing person case of Timothy Fortney, based on available reporting and law enforcement updates.
Last Seen: Mar 18, 2018
