FREEPORT, N.Y. – Nassau County Police have confirmed the identity of a homicide victim whose remains were discovered more than four decades ago in Freeport. The breakthrough came through investigative genealogy, which identified the victim as 15-year-old Susan Mann of Hollis, Queens.
Mann disappeared on May 17, 1980, and was last seen leaving her home. For years, her whereabouts remained unknown. On November 4, 1982, Freeport Police responded to North Main Street after workers discovered a body in a dumpster at the Cantor Glass Works property. At the time, the girl was listed as a Jane Doe.
Detectives say Mann was still wearing the same clothing and pendant she had on when she went missing. Officials believe her remains may have been relocated at some point, possibly to conceal the crime during nearby construction.
Authorities recently used modern investigative genealogy to identify her remains and formally connect the case to Mann. While the homicide investigation remains active, Nassau County Police and Crime Stoppers are again asking the public for information.
A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for tips that lead to an arrest. Anyone with knowledge of the crime is urged to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS (8477) or submit information anonymously online at https://www.nassaucountycrimestoppers.com.
1982 Freeport Homicide
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Susan Mann, 15, of Hollis, Queens |
| Date Missing | May 17, 1980 |
| Date Found | November 4, 1982 |
| Location Found | Dumpster at Cantor Glass Works, North Main Street, Freeport |
| Identification | Confirmed through investigative genealogy |
| Clothing & Evidence | Wearing same clothing and pendant from day she disappeared |
| Current Status | Homicide investigation ongoing |
| Reward | Up to $25,000 for information leading to arrest |
| Contact | 1-800-244-TIPS or nassaucounty.crimestoppersweb.com |
Q&A: 1982 Susan Mann Homicide
Who was Susan Mann?
Susan Mann was a 15-year-old girl from Hollis, Queens, who vanished in May 1980. She was a high school student at the time of her disappearance.
How was she identified after so many years?
Advances in investigative genealogy allowed law enforcement to analyze DNA from her remains and trace her identity through family lineage. This method has been used in several other cold cases nationwide.
Why did it take until 1982 for her body to be discovered?
Her body was found more than two years after she went missing. Detectives believe her remains may have been moved to avoid discovery during construction, which delayed identification.
What is investigative genealogy?
It’s a forensic tool that combines DNA testing with public genealogy databases to help identify unknown victims or suspects. It has become increasingly valuable in solving decades-old cases.
Is anyone in custody?
No arrests have been made. The case is still classified as an active homicide investigation, and police continue to pursue leads.
How can the public help?
Anyone with information can call 1-800-244-TIPS or submit an anonymous online tip. Crime Stoppers is offering up to $25,000 for information that helps secure an arrest.
