Perry County, PA – Wednesday, September 27, 2023: In 2022, Season of Justice funded DNA analysis and FGG research to assist the Perry County District Attorney’s Office with their efforts to identify a homicide victim found in 2014.
As a result of that DNA testing conducted by Othram Inc., Perry County District Attorney Laura Eichelberger announced on September 27, 2023, that they’ve positively identified the victim as Mr. Michael Allen Holober from Strasburg, VA. A hiker discovered Holober’s remains on state game land in 2014. The initial investigation determined the victim died as a result of a gunshot wound and his death was ruled a homicide. Investigators were unable to glean much evidence from the skeletal remains, and the victim remained unidentified for 9 years.
In September 2022, Season of Justice funded DNA testing and forensic genetic genealogy research conducted by Othram Labs. Othram’s analysis ultimately led to the identification of Michael Allen Holober in early 2023. Identifying Holober was the lead that detectives needed to find his killer. Investigators determined the alleged suspect killed Michael in Strasburg, VA before driving two hours to Perry County where the victim was ultimately found. On Tuesday, September 26, 2023, the suspect was arrested and will be prosecuted in Strasburg, VA.
Season of Justice extends our deepest gratitude to the Perry County DA’s Office, PA State Police, and Othram for their relentless pursuit of answers and justice. We’d also like to thank our generous donors without whom, none of this would be possible. We hope this brings some peace to Michael’s loved ones as they’re finally able to bring him home.
Watch the full press conference below.