SALINE COUNTY —Human remains discovered in Saline County in 2021 have been identified as 69-year-old Kenneth Frances Reitcheck, according to the Saline County Sheriff’s Office. He was reported missing in November of 2019.
On April 20, 2021, a human skull and a small bone were found near a wooded creek on agricultural property in southwest Salina. Law enforcement also discovered an old tent and debris from a makeshift campsite in the area. Despite an extensive search, including the use of K9 units, no additional evidence was recovered at the time to assist in identifying the remains.
Initial examinations, including those conducted by the Wichita State Anthropology Department, provided some details regarding the estimated height and age of the individual but could not confirm an identity.
In the summer of 2024, Saline County investigators reached out to Othram Labs, which specializes in advanced DNA testing. On Dec. 2, investigators were notified that DNA analysis confirmed the remains belonged to Kenneth Reitcheck, who was 69 years old when he disappeared.
The cause of death remains undetermined.