NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Skeletal remains discovered last fall behind a strip mall on Murfreesboro Pike have now been identified through DNA testing, according to Metro Nashville Police.
The remains were found Oct. 10, 2025, in a wooded area behind the strip mall at 818 Murfreesboro Pike. A community policing officer located them while following up on a tip.
Police said the remains were inside a large plastic garbage bag when they were discovered.
Investigators later identified the person as Matthew Edward Madewell, who would have been 40 at the time of the discovery.
Madewell was last seen in late 2024 and may have been living near Trinity Lane. Police said he may also have been working for a construction company building hotels in the downtown area.
Cold Case detectives are asking anyone with information about Madewell’s last known whereabouts to contact them at 615-862-7329.
Here’s a beautiful story of how one mother turned her grief journey into a gathering of gratitude… and organ donation awareness.
Robb Coles highlights a special event organized by Cari Hollis – whose 26-year old son Austin died two years ago. Austin agreed to be an organ donor – and that single gesture saved multiple lives.
Cari reached out to as many recipients she could find – several of whom traveled to Nashville for an emotional celebration in Austin’s honor. One woman – whose life was saved by receiving Austin’s lungs – put it simply: “He’s my angel”.
- Rhori Johnston
