Forensic testing has concluded that an unidentified child who was found dead in North Carolina in 1998, may have come from the Southeast, with the highest potential from Georgia and Alabama.

Authorities are asking for the public's help in identifying the child, based on new facial reconstruction imaging shown here.

On September 25, 1998, skeletal remains of an unidentified boy were found in Mebane, Orange County, North Carolina. He was found in heavy brush near a billboard sign along Industrial Drive which is a service road adjacent to the westbound lanes of Interstates 85 and 40. 

The child had been deceased at this location for several months.

The remains were identified as a male, 9-12 years old. His race is Caucasian or Hispanic. He stood approximately 4’11” tall and had straight brown hair.

The boy had no dental fillings but some teeth had preventative sealant placed on them to help prevent cavities and decay. He had a slight overbite and his upper canine teeth were high erupting canines, commonly referred to as “fang teeth.” 

The child was found wearing khaki shorts, socks, and black sneakers. A small amount of cash was found inside his pocket.

 If anyone has information about John Mebane Doe or believes they know who the child is, you are asked to contact the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or the Orange County Sheriff’s Office at 919-644-3050.