Missing Annapolis Man Identified in Truxtun Park
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed the identity of human remains found in September.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Accidents
Authorities have identified human remains found in a wooded area of Truxtun Park as 33-year-old Nicholas Bradley Patterson. Patterson had been reported missing to police earlier this year.
Why it matters
The identification brings a conclusion to the search for Patterson, who was first reported missing by his family in January. Investigators are now working to determine the circumstances surrounding his death.
The Annapolis Police Department is handling the investigation, which currently shows no indication of foul play. The medical examiner has yet to release a final report on the cause of death.
The players
Nicholas Bradley Patterson
The 33-year-old man who was the subject of a missing persons report.
Annapolis Police Department
The municipal law enforcement agency responsible for investigating the discovery of the remains.
Office of the Chief Medical Examiner
The state authority responsible for performing the forensic identification of the recovered remains.
The details
Police announced the identification on October 13, following the discovery of the remains in the park on September 30. Local officials are asking anyone with information to contact the Annapolis Police Department at 410-260-3439.
Timeline
January 21, 2026: Nicholas Bradley Patterson was reported missing.
September 30, 2026: Human remains were discovered in Truxtun Park.
October 13, 2026: Annapolis Police announced the identification.
Legal Context
This case follows established Maryland missing persons investigation protocols for verifying identities of long-term missing individuals. The process ensures that forensic confirmation is provided by state authorities to provide closure to families while maintaining investigative integrity.
The discovery in Truxtun Park does not pose an immediate threat to the community, as officials have found no signs of foul play. Residents are encouraged to use the provided police contact line if they have any information regarding the timeline of this disappearance.
The takeaway
Families of missing persons rely on forensic identification to bring formal closure to long-term disappearances. Officials continue to await the medical examiner's final report to provide a definitive answer regarding the cause of death.
Further reading
For more information on local investigative reports, visit the Annapolis Accidents section.
