Human Remains Found in Submerged SUV Identified as Miller Place Man Missing Since 2010

By Samantha Vogel-Hespos | Long Island Daily News

MOUNT SINAI, NY — The Suffolk County Police Department has confirmed that human remains found inside a submerged SUV off Cedar Beach in Mount Sinai Harbor belong to Robert Long, a Miller Place man who had been missing for nearly 15 years.

The grim discovery was made on June 30 by nonprofit dive teams Adventures with Purpose and Explorers With a Mission, who were searching local waterways for cold case clues. Using side-scan sonar, divers located a 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser about 150 feet offshore and 19 feet underwater. Upon surfacing the vehicle, investigators found skeletal remains, including a rib cage, inside the driver’s seat area.

The Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the identity of the remains through forensic testing. Long, who was 62 years old at the time of his disappearance in December 2010, was last seen leaving his home around the holidays. His family had reported him missing after he failed to return or contact anyone.

Authorities have not yet released an official cause of death, but foul play is not suspected at this time. The vehicle was removed from the harbor using a crane and is being examined by police for further evidence.

The discovery brings long-awaited closure to the Long family, who had spent years seeking answers. “This gives us peace, finally,” a family member said in a brief statement.

The case also highlights the critical work of volunteer dive organizations who specialize in solving cold cases nationwide. The same teams have assisted in recovering dozens of missing persons by investigating bodies of water overlooked in initial searches.

Police say the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Suffolk County Homicide Squad at 631-852-6392.

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