In this special edition of Finding Family DNA, Jay turns the spotlight on co-host and investigative genetic genealogist Misty Gillis, as she walks us through the chilling and historic “Boy in the Box” case — a mystery unsolved for over six decades. Misty shares how she used the same DNA techniques applied in adoptee reunifications to help identify the boy as Joseph Augustus Zarelli, a four-year-old found murdered in Philadelphia in 1957. With compassion, precision, and years of dedication, Misty cracked a case that baffled authorities for generations, giving the nameless child his identity and a family to claim him. This moving episode celebrates Misty’s role in solving one of America’s most haunting cold cases — a testament to the power of DNA and dogged determination.

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https://youtu.be/JDSLh9OsPog

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:52 Subscriber Growth and Audience Insights

06:13 The Boy in the Box Case Introduction

07:15 Solving the Boy in the Box Case

17:34 Emotional Impact and Press Conference

20:15 Other Notable Cases and Professional Journey

26:31 Conclusion and Future Plans

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