DNA Test Confirms Fossett's Bones Near Crash Site

November 3, 2008 8:38 p.m. EST

Madera, CA (AHN) - Two large bones found near the crash site of Steve Fossett's plane in California's Sierra Nevada mountains belong to the millionaire adventurer, according to DNA tests conducted by the Department of Justice.

The match of the bones' DNA with Fossett's puts a closure to the fate of adventurer, who has been missing since September 2007 after flying a Bellanca 8KCAB of his friend from a Nevada ranch towards California.

The wreckage of the plane was found last month after a hiker saw Fossett's pilot license and a wad of $100 bills along a trail near Mammoth Lakes. The bones, together with Fossett's tennis shoes and Illinois driver's license, were found last week half a mile from the crash site.

Authorities believe Fossett died on impact of the crash and animals in the area may have eaten his remains as shown by bite marks on his driver's license.