Washington Coast – Human remains discovered along the Washington coastline have been identified as those of Clarence Edwin “Ed” Asher, a former mayor of Fossil, Oregon, who disappeared nearly two decades ago. Authorities confirmed the identification after advances in DNA testing finally solved the long-standing mystery surrounding his disappearance.
Former Mayor Vanished During 2006 Crabbing Trip
Clarence “Ed” Asher, who served as mayor of Fossil, Oregon, vanished in September 2006 during a solo crabbing trip near Tillamook Bay on the Oregon coast. At the time, authorities believed the 72-year-old had drowned after failing to return.
According to reporting by KATU, Asher was officially declared dead later that year. His disappearance prompted concern across the small community where he was well known for decades of public service and volunteer work.
Coast Guard Search Ended After One Day
Following Asher’s disappearance, the U.S. Coast Guard launched a search and rescue operation in Tillamook Bay. The search was suspended after just one day.
During the operation, Coast Guard crews located Asher’s boat idling in the water, with live crab still onboard, suggesting the incident occurred suddenly. Authorities also noted that Asher could not swim, a fact later confirmed by his wife.
Despite the search effort, no trace of Asher himself was found at the time.
Remains Found but Listed as John Doe
Shortly after Asher disappeared, human remains were discovered on a beach along the Washington coast. However, investigators were unable to identify them, and the remains were listed under a “John Doe” designation for years.
With no identification and limited forensic technology available at the time, the case went cold and remained unresolved for nearly two decades.
DNA Testing Finally Solves the Case
In a renewed effort to identify the remains, DNA evidence was sent last year to Othram, a Texas-based laboratory that specializes in advanced forensic genealogy and cold case investigations.
Through modern DNA analysis, the lab successfully matched the remains to Clarence Edwin Asher, finally confirming what authorities had long suspected regarding his fate.
Family History and Community Service
Asher’s wife, who passed away in 2018 at age 85, had previously told investigators that her husband could not swim, reinforcing the belief that he drowned during the 2006 incident.
According to his obituary, Asher spent nearly 50 years working as a lineman technician for the Fossil Telephone Company. Beyond his professional career, he was deeply involved in his community, volunteering as a fireman and ambulance driver and at one point opening a local variety store.
At the time of his death, Asher was the grandfather of 21 grandchildren, and his disappearance left a lasting impact on his family and the tight-knit town of Fossil.
Case Closure After Nearly Two Decades
The identification of Asher’s remains brings long-awaited closure to a case that spanned almost 20 years. Advances in DNA technology have once again demonstrated their role in resolving cold cases that once seemed unsolvable, providing answers to families long left without them.
The case is now considered closed by authorities.
