Human Remains from Canal Identified as Woman Missing Since 1985

In May 2024, kayakers discovered human remains in a canal in northeastern Cape Coral, Florida. This discovery has recently been identified as Rose Marie Gayhart, who vanished in 1985 at age 23. The Cape Coral Police Department confirmed the identity in May 2026 using DNA samples from Gayhart’s family.

The investigation involved collaboration between the Cape Coral Police Department’s violent crimes unit, a local medical examiner’s office, and a sheriff’s office in New York, Gayhart’s original home. Now considered a homicide, authorities are actively investigating Gayhart’s death.

Cape Coral Police Chief Anthony Sizemore emphasized their commitment to achieving justice. He stated, “While this identification brings long-awaited answers, it also strengthens our resolve. No matter how much time passes, even after four decades, our investigations do not stop, and our pursuit of justice does not end. This is now considered an active homicide investigation, and we are committed to following every lead.”

Sizemore appealed for public assistance, urging anyone with knowledge regarding the case to report information to help bring resolution for Gayhart’s family.

Gayhart, originally from Danville, New York, lived and worked around Cape Coral and North Fort Myers when she disappeared. WINK News reported she was last seen at Big Howie’s Hot Dogs, the restaurant where she was employed. Gayhart resided in a North Fort Myers trailer park with her boyfriend and his mother.

Laurie Travis, Gayhart’s sister, has continuously sought answers about her sister’s disappearance for years. In an interview with WINK, Travis shared insights about Gayhart’s life before she vanished, noting her sister’s happiness and her invitation to visit Florida shortly before she went missing. Travis suspects foul play, recalling community rumors and disturbances at the trailer park where Gayhart lived.