Skeletal remains discovered near Slidell, Louisiana, last month have been positively identified as those of Maurice A. Appleton, a man who had been missing since August 2025. St. Tammany Parish Coroner Dr. Christopher Tape confirmed the identification, with investigators using evidence such as clothing and surgical implants to verify the remains.
The Discovery and Identification Process
The remains were discovered in an area near Slidell, prompting a response from both the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office and the coroner’s office. After the discovery, the remains were sent to Louisiana State University’s FACES lab for further analysis. The forensic investigation, along with the identification of personal items, confirmed that the remains belong to Appleton, who was born in 1959.
Ongoing Investigation
While foul play is not suspected at this time, it has not been completely ruled out, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are working to determine the time, cause, and manner of death.
Call for Information
The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, Slidell Police, and the coroner’s office are urging anyone with information about Appleton’s disappearance or death to come forward and assist in the investigation.
