Cambria County coroner Jeff Lees has identified the human remains found at the former home of now convicted murderer Brian Giles as belonging to Jilly Todaro, a Johnstown woman who had been reported missing since December of 2020.
Officials say Todaro’s remains were found buried in the basement of Giles’ former Franklin Street residence, just one day after he was convicted of murder in the disappearance and death of his wife Nancy.
Lees says that Todaro’s death has officially been ruled a homicide and stated that she suffered “homicidal violence.”
Investigators say she was identified by the forensic anthropology team at Mercyhurst University, with the help of medical records and body imaging tools.
District Attorney Greg Neugebauer says the investigation into Todaro’s death remains active and charges have not yet been filed.
During a press conference Thursday morning, investigators stated that while they are relieved to have finally found Todaro’s body, they are “sad that their fears about her disappearance were true.”
Neugebauer also noted that many of those involved in the investigation knew Todaro on a “first-name” basis and had various communications with her prior to her disappearance.
Authorities added that by finding Todaro’s remains, their case “became stronger.”
Investigators did not go into further detail about the case and noted that a press conference will be held when charges are filed.