Human Remains Linked to 1974 Missing Family and WWII Veteran Found in Florida Canals

A team of divers uncovered new leads in long-standing missing person cases in Florida by finding two vehicles submerged in local canals, with skeletal remains believed to belong to the individuals inside. The vehicles were initially sought for the vanishing of a woman and her young daughter in 1974, but the discovery also included the remains of a World War II veteran who went missing 20 years ago.

Mysterious Disappearance in 1974

On November 12, 1974, a devastating incident shook the Plantation community in Florida when a 35-year-old woman and her three-year-old daughter mysteriously disappeared from their home. The case has remained unsolved for nearly five decades, leaving a profound impact on the community and the families affected by the loss.

World War II Veteran's Vanishing 20 Years Ago

In a surprising twist, the dive team's search efforts also led them to uncover the vehicle and likely remains of an 83-year-old World War II veteran, Bernie Novick, who went missing from his home two decades ago. This revelation adds another layer of complexity to the dive team's already challenging mission, highlighting the far-reaching and often unpredictable nature of their work.

The Role of Sunshine State Sonar

The diver's search for the missing mother and child took a significant turn after the involvement of a renowned volunteer organization, Sunshine State Sonar. This dedicated group specializes in conducting volunteer searches for missing person cases in South Florida, and they have been instrumental in leading the mission to locate the submerged vehicles.

Expert Search and Recovery Efforts

Using advanced sonar technology, the Sunshine State Sonar team successfully identified a 1960s model Chevrolet Impala submerged in the canal, which yielded skeletal remains consistent with an adult and small child. Footage of the recovery operation and the subsequent confirmation of the identities through DNA testing revealed a link to the Wurst family, providing long-sought answers to the heart-wrenching mystery that had lingered for decades.