Human remains discovered by a kayaker in Florida have been confirmed as belonging to Rose Marie Gayhart, who vanished over 40 years ago at the age of 23. Gayhart was reported missing in March 1985 by her parents from Dansville, New York.
Prior to her disappearance, Gayhart resided in the Cape Coral and North Fort Myers area. Investigations launched by the Cape Coral Police Department have traced Gayhart back to this region, where she was last known to live and work.
Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers highlighted Gayhart’s case in 2013, revealing she lived with her boyfriend, Robert Paddock, and his mother. Gayhart relocated to the area merely three months before her disappearance, according to Cape Coral Police Chief Anthony Sizemore.
Gayhart’s regular communication with her family abruptly ended, raising concerns. Crime Stoppers indicates her relationship with her boyfriend was troubled. Witness interviews, including those with Paddock and his mother, revealed Gayhart was last seen departing with a suitcase after being expelled from their home. A neighbor recounted Gayhart using her phone to contact her family.
Additional insight from Crime Stoppers stated Gayhart had just begun employment at Howie’s Hot Dogs in Cape Coral. Rose Marie Gayhart’s name resurfaced when her boyfriend failed to find her at work.
Restaurant witnesses reported Gayhart left with a man driving a red pickup truck. Two independent witnesses also identified Gayhart with a white male in a similar vehicle. This detail is crucial for advancing the investigation.
Discovery and Identification
A kayaker uncovered a human skull in a Cape Coral canal in May 2024. DNA obtained from Gayhart’s family, facilitated by New York law enforcement, confirmed her identity through tests conducted on the remains.
This conclusion brings some relief to Gayhart’s family, who have faced four decades of uncertainty. Cape Coral Police Chief Sizemore emphasized their commitment to continue pursuing justice regardless of elapsed time. The case, now active, is considered a homicide investigation.
Authorities appeal to the public for information that might provide further closure for Gayhart’s family. Sizemore encourages anyone with possible insights to aid in accountability and resolution for the victim and her loved ones.