UPDATED 1/9/23: As a result of assistance from the DNA Doe Project, the deceased individual in this case has been identified as Earl Joseph Pizzoferrato (DOB: 7/29/91) of Knoxville. At this time, the investigation into the circumstances leading to Mr. Pizzoferrato’s death remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to call 1-800-TBI-FIND.
Click the following link to read more about the work that went into identifying Mr. Pizzoferrato. https://dnadoeproject.org/case/jefferson-co-john-doe-2019/
— Previously Released —
JEFFERSON COUNTY – The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office are asking for the public’s help in identifying a man whose body was found along Douglas Lake earlier this month.
On March 10th, at the request of 4th District Attorney General James Dunn, TBI Special Agents joined Detectives with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office in investigating the discovery of a body along Douglas Lake near Lakeside Drive in Dandridge. At this time, it is unknown how long the body had been there. The victim’s race, height, and approximate age are also currently unknown.
Investigators are hoping someone may be able to identify the man by some of his clothing. The victim was wearing a Walking Dead t-shirt, blue jeans, and a belt with a buckle that has an image of a horse and horseshoe in the center. The belt also has an eagle pattern along with the name “Gerald” stamped into the leather. Photos of the shirt and belt are below.
Anyone with information that can help lead to the identity of this individual is asked to contact the TBI at 1-800-TBI-FIND or the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office at 865-397-9411.
TBINewsroom.com 