BUNNELL, Fla. – The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office announced Monday that human remains recovered from a submerged vehicle in the Intracoastal Waterway are believed to be those of a Palm Coast woman who disappeared more than 22 years ago.
During a news conference, Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly said they discovered remains they believe are “99.9% sure” to be Mary Lou Combs. Combs was reported missing on Aug. 19, 2003, last seen leaving her home in Palm Coast following an argument with her mother, according to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.
Her case went cold despite years of tips, searches and renewed media attention, Staly said.
Staly added that a breakthrough came Oct. 25, 2025, when volunteer dive teams located what appeared to be a vehicle upside down and partially buried in the water near 18th Road. A bumper consistent with Combs’ 1996 Dodge Neon was also found.
A multi‑agency recovery effort began, involving more than 30 members of the FBI’s Underwater Search and Evidence Response Team, the FBI Evidence Response Team and the sheriff’s office. Divers were able to enter the vehicle and used dredging equipment to recover items including car parts, a shoe matching Combs’ size, her Florida driver’s license, toys identified by her daughter and human remains.
An FBI forensic anthropologist confirmed the remains included a leg bone with metal plates, consistent with Combs’ past injury. DNA testing is pending, though officials said saltwater exposure may limit results.
Investigators believe Combs accidentally drove into the water at the end of 18th Road and that the vehicle drifted before capsizing and sinking. Staly said the evidence strongly suggests a tragic accident, though the case remains open until final confirmation.
“Over time, we probably will never know exactly what occurred. When it comes to that, we know, given the passage of more than two decades, that finding Mary Lou alive was extremely unlikely. However, providing answers no matter how difficult, is critical for families who have endured decades of uncertainty," Staly said.
At the time of her disappearance, Combs had a 14-year-old son and a 13-year-old daughter.
The case remains an active investigation.
“Someone out there may still hold a piece of information that helps us complete this investigation, or helps us solve one of our other cold cases," Staly said.
Officials ask that if you have information about this case to please contact the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office at 386-313-4911. You can also email tips here or contact Crime Stoppers at 800-222-Tips.