Lake Mead victim found in barrel identified as Edward Lelburian Jackson

Las Vegas authorities have identified the remains of a man found inside a rusted metal barrel in Lake Mead, a discovery made in May 2022 after receding water levels exposed the object. The victim has been identified as Edward “Buddy” Lelburian Jackson, an Arkansas native who was in his mid-to-late 50s at the time of his death.

Investigators determined Jackson died from a single gunshot wound to the head. Based on clothing and footwear found with the remains, detectives believe the homicide occurred between the mid-1970s and early 1980s. The identification was achieved through genealogical DNA profiling.

While the discovery initially sparked public speculation regarding organized crime due to the nature of the remains, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department stated there is currently no evidence linking the killing to the mob. Jackson had a brief criminal history in Utah involving arson and fraud, but he had no known ties to Las Vegas. The homicide investigation remains open.