10/12/2026
NEWS RELEASE: Human Remains Identified in 1997 Missing Person Case
CONYERS, Ga. (October 12, 2026): The Conyers Police Department has confirmed the identity of human remains recovered during a long-term missing person investigation, bringing long-awaited answers to the family of Tammy Fortson nearly three decades after her disappearance.
Tammy Fortson was reported missing in 1997 from the Fox Chase Court area. Despite extensive investigative efforts at the time, the case eventually went cold.
In 2016, skeletal remains were discovered near Christian Circle, an area believed to be one of the last known locations where Tammy was seen. As the investigation continued, portions of the recovered remains were submitted to the University of North Texas Center for Human Identification in 2019 for advanced DNA analysis.
Over the years, the investigation was reviewed by multiple detectives. While each pursued available leads, the evidence necessary to positively identify the remains could not be established.
In 2024, the case was reassigned to Lieutenant Hinds, who renewed investigative efforts and coordinated additional forensic testing with the University of North Texas Center for Human Identification.
After months of analysis, DNA testing determined the remains were approximately 104 million times more likely to be the biological child of Ms. Beckhold than an unrelated individual. Based on those results, investigators were able to provide this information to the GBI, and the medical examiner was able to positively identify the remains as those of Tammy Fortson in July of 2026.
This identification represents a significant milestone in a case that has remained unresolved for many years. While it cannot erase the pain experienced by Tammy's family, we hope it provides them with some measure of answers and allows the investigation to move forward.
The investigation into Tammy Fortson's death remains active and ongoing. Detectives continue to seek information regarding the circumstances surrounding her disappearance and death. Anyone with information, no matter how minor it may seem, is encouraged to contact the Newton County Sheriff’s Office at 678-625-1412.
