DNA biological samples identify long-lost loved ones

On October 22, 1967, the Huron County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), received a missing person’s report involving two men that had departed for a fishing excursion from the Port of Goderich and were never seen again.

Neil WORMSBECKER and Hank Englebertus HALFF, were ages 29 and 30 respectively when they went missing in Lake Huron. Both men resided in the Stratford, Ontario area at the time.

On October 2nd, 2024, the OPP requested the public’s help in locating biological family members for the two men. Several tips were received, which resulted in a biological family member being located for Mr. Halff.

On October 15th, 2024, a second public appeal was made for biological family members of Mr. Wormsbecker.

The Huron OPP is pleased to advise that biological family members for both men have been located. These family members have provided DNA samples which will be analyzed and compared.

The OPP wishes to extend their gratitude to their many media partners who distributed this important message to the public. Investigators were contacted by several members of the public who provided information that led to family members for both men.

The Ontario Center for Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains (ONCMPUR), along with the National Missing Persons DNA Program (NMDP) continue to work toward solving historical cases and providing closure for families of missing loved ones.

Any person with information regarding this incident or any other incident is asked to contact Huron OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or the Huron OPP detachment direct at (519) 482-1677.

Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a web tip at “P3tips.com” where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.