Unidentified Persons

An unidentified person is an individual whose identity is unknown at the time of death and could not be confirmed through available identification, documentation, or during law enforcement’s initial investigation. In these cases, the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office works with the assisting law enforcement agency to determine the identity. 

This page contains descriptions of unidentified remains whose cases have been processed by the Medical Examiner’s Office. Please email MEO.unknowns@cookcountyil.gov if you believe an unidentified decedent is a relative or missing person. This list is updated as needed.

DISCLAIMER: Some images may be enhanced by a process using Adobe Photoshop. This image enhancement is being used for identification purposes only. The image was produced outside the scope of the postmortem examination, and any ongoing investigation by law enforcement. The sole intent and purpose of any enhancement of the postmortem photograph is to aid in the identification of an unknown decedent when traditional identification methods have been exhausted.  

While the Medical Examiner’s Office encourages the public, law enforcement agencies, and other concerned parties to view the enhanced postmortem photograph, we understand there is potential for emotional distress. It is our goal that someone will recognize the unknown decedent and provide closure to the family.   

National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs)

Additional descriptions and information for Cook County unidentified decedents can also be found at NAMUS.gov.  The National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) is a national centralized repository and resource center for missing, unidentified, and unclaimed person cases across the United States. This database allows families to search across the country for missing or unidentified decedents.

Missing Person Reports 

If you are searching for a missing person, please contact a local law enforcement to make a formal report. As of January 1, 2026, Illinois has passed the Missing Persons Act Illinois General Assembly - Public Act 104-0339 to streamline missing persons investigations and ensure that cases remain active until resolved.