PRESS RELEASE A “cold case” is defined as a criminal investigation that has been suspended because all investigative leads have been exhausted. Less than 1% of cold cases are solved. Sometimes though, advances in technology, new information or a stroke of luck allows for a cold case to be reopened. Opening and re-investigating cold cases takes an enormous amount of effort and time, presenting a challenge in dedicating active patrol members or detectives who are daily bombarded with calls for service. For the last two years, the Coos County Sheriff’s office has been working with the Oregon Cold Case Collective (OC3), a group fully staffed by unpaid volunteers who have a passion for bringing old cases forward using new technology and investigative techniques. We are incredibly excited to say that OC3 has taken a huge leap in solving a cold case. In 1972, skeletonized remains were found in Bandon off Highway 101, with marks indicative of homicidal violence. Unfortunately, they were without enough evidence to lead investigators to an identity. However, after organizing and investigating possible leads, OC3 coordinated with the FBI to run Investigative Genetic Genealogy, an otherwise expensive process that traces DNA to find family. The testing began in March of 2025, which led OC3 and the FBI to identify the remains as Armes Henry Lahti, who originated in Astoria, Oregon. Armes was an avid fisherman and a Navy Veteran, who joined and served during World War II. Affectionately known as “Mousy” because he was anything but, Armes’ family said he was a large, gentle man who loved the sea and was proud of his service to his country. The Coos County Sheriff’s Office is now asking for the public’s help. Once he was identified, investigators discovered that Armes had a dispute at a bar, immediately before he disappeared. While we don’t have a name, Armes reportedly got in a dispute and walked away with a rifle one evening. This event likely occurred in 1965. While the case is as old as 60 years ago, we would like to bring justice to Armes and his family. If you or anyone you know might have information, no matter how seemingly small, please call 541-396-7800, and ask to leave a message for Special Deputy Fabrizio. Lastly, a big thank you to OC3, The FBI’s Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogists, NamUs, OSP Forensic Service Division, and Othram, who were all instrumental in helping give a name back to Armes, and bring some resolution to his family.