OCOEE, Fla. — Central Florida police have confirmed that human remains found in 2009 have solved a missing person cold case from 1988.
11:25 a.m. update:
Clermont and Ocoee police said human remains found in 2009 belonged to Ernest Joe Manzanares.
Manzanares was 23 years old and living in Ocoee when he was reported missing in 1988.
The Ocoee Police Department shared his story in July of last year.
Today marks the anniversary of Ernest Manzanares going missing. His case is still unsolved.
— Ocoee Police Department (@OcoeePD) July 28, 2025
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📢 Or call Crimeline: 1-800-423-TIPS#ColdCase #OcoeePD #Ocoee pic.twitter.com/QkyuHb02tN
Channel 9 is gathering more details and will provide updates on Eyewitness News.
Original report:
The Clermont Police Department and Ocoee Police Department will host a joint press conference at 11 a.m. to identify the remains of a person who was previously reported missing.
Officials said the announcement follows a long-term investigation into a case spanning several decades.
Speakers for the event include Capt. Malcolm Draper of the Clermont Police Department and retired Ocoee police detective Michelle Grogan.
Clermont Police Chief John Graczyk and Ocoee Police Chief Vince Ogburn will also be present for the announcement.
Channel 9 will have a crew at the event and provide updates on Eyewitness News.
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