Dana Nicole Lowrey, a 23-year-old Caucasian woman, tragically lost her life in May 2006 under harrowing circumstances. Originally from Minden, Louisiana, Dana had faced significant challenges early in life, including the loss of her parents. She sought stability and joy in her relationship with David Cobb, with whom she had two daughters. However, their relationship deteriorated, and Dana eventually moved to Ohio, where she began working as a door-to-door magazine salesperson.
She maintained regular contact with her children until May 2006, when her calls abruptly ceased. Her family, initially assuming she had chosen to move on, later reported her missing.
In March 2007, human remains were discovered in a wooded area in Marion County, Ohio. The remains, which had been burned, were initially unidentified. It was not until 2018, through advancements in forensic technology and DNA analysis, that the remains were conclusively identified as Dana Lowrey's. This identification brought some closure to her family, who laid her to rest in Louisiana.
The investigation into Dana's death took a significant turn in 2016 with the arrest of Shawn Grate, a convicted serial killer. Grate confessed to murdering Dana, revealing that he had lured her into his car under the pretense of purchasing magazines. He then took her to his house, where he strangled her and later disposed of her body. Grate's confession, combined with forensic evidence, confirmed his culpability in Dana's murder. He is currently on death row for multiple murders, including Dana's.
The case highlights the critical role of forensic advancements and inter-agency collaboration in solving cold cases. Dana's tragic story underscores the importance of continued efforts to bring justice to victims and their families.
