It has been nine months since a body was pulled from the Neuse River in Smithfield.
Police detectives have worked countless leads and tips in the case but still haven’t been able to identify the remains found last April.
Today (Thursday), the Smithfield Police Department released a sketch of the victim in hopes someone will recognize the man.
Police confirmed for the first time today that foul play is suspected in the victim’s death.
Because of decomposition, the NC Medical Examiner could not determine if the victim was Caucasian, Asian or Hispanic but said the man was about 5 foot 4, with a blue and red tattoo on his upper right arm near the shoulder.
Police quickly ruled out last year the body was not that of Cole Thomas who has been missing from Benson since Nov. 2016.
With the help of the NC Medical Examiner, NC State University and the Wake County Sheriff’s Office, police were able to complete a skull reconstruction drawing in hopes someone might recognize the victim.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Ronald Johnson at 919-934-2121.
A cash reward is being offered for substantial information lead to the identity of the victim.
Callers who wish to remain anonymous can leave a tip on the Smithfield Police Tip Line at 919-989-8835.
