Alachua County, FL – Thirty-one years after a man was found dead in a wooded area of Alachua County, investigators are again asking the public for help as the case remains unsolved today, Sunday.
According to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, 44-year-old Gary Flanagan was discovered deceased on December 29, 1993, near State Road 24 and Northeast 69th Avenue. Authorities say Flanagan was a resident of Nashville, Tennessee, who had arrived in Gainesville earlier that same day.
Investigators said a passing truck driver experiencing vehicle trouble contacted authorities and, while waiting for assistance, walked into nearby woods believed to be a deer trail. During that time, the driver discovered Flanagan’s body and alerted law enforcement.
Officials have not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding Flanagan’s death, and the case continues to be classified as an active cold case. Detectives emphasized that advancements in investigative techniques and renewed public awareness can sometimes generate new leads, even decades later.
The sheriff’s office is urging anyone who may have information — no matter how minor it may seem — to come forward. Tips can be provided directly to investigators by calling Detective Todd Hant at (352) 367-4164 or (352) 756-3308, or by email at thant@alachuasheriff.org.
Anonymous tips may also be submitted through Alachua County Crime Stoppers at 352-372-STOP.
Authorities say community assistance remains critical in resolving long-unsolved cases and bringing closure to victims’ families.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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