DNA IDs Bones as Missing Woodridge Man

Authorities say DNA testing on skeletal remains found 14 months ago on the banks of the Des Plaines River reveals that they from Scott Dudko, a Woodridge man last seen alive in December 2008.

A statement released by Will County Coroner Patrick O'Neil said the cause of Dudko's death is unknown, but authorities are treating it as homicidal.

"The circumstances surrounding the discovery of the body and the forensic examination of the remains have led authorities to conclude that Dudko died under suspicious circumstances," O'Neil said in a statement.

When the bones were found near Channahon, there was suspicion that they might have been from Stacy Peterson, the missing wife of former Bolingbrook Police Sgt. Drew Peterson, but examination showed they were from a male.

There wasn't much of the person left -- just a ribcage, spinal column and thigh bones, O'Neil said at the time.  Shreds of blue jeans and a small amount of cash were also found.

Dudko's name came up when two retired detectives discussed the case and notified the coroner's office.

DNA saved from an autopsy performed on Dudko's father, who last resided in Florida, was compared to the bones from the riverside and a positive identification was made.