The DNA testing scenario also assumes that extractable DNA remains in whatever sample is available.

This cannot be guaranteed without laboratory analysis.

The Harlyn Geronimo Perspective

Harlyn Geronimo is one of the most prominent descendants of Geronimo to have publicly engaged with the skull mystery.

As Geronimo’s great-grandson, he has been involved in the advocacy for return of remains and the advocacy for DNA testing.

Harlyn Geronimo has stated in multiple contexts that his family and Apache descendants are willing to participate in DNA testing to resolve the identity question.

He has also expressed the view that if the remains at Yale or elsewhere are not Geronimo’s, they likely belong to another Apache prisoner who died at Fort Sill — which would make them equally deserving of return and proper treatment under NAGPRA and basic principles of human dignity.