The St. Croix County Sheriff’s Office announces a significant update in a cold case that began over 23 years ago. On October 21, 2002, human remains consisting of a decomposed skull were discovered at the Fred C. Anderson Boy Scout Camp in Somerset Township, rural St. Croix County, Wisconsin.
For almost two decades, Sheriff’s Office investigators followed up on numerous investigative leads and scientific techniques to identify the remains. In February 2021, the St. Croix County Sheriff’s Office teamed with the DNA Doe Project to assist in identifying the remains utilizing DNA and genetic genealogy.
Through the collaborative efforts of the DNA Doe Project and investigators with the St. Croix County Sheriff’s Office, the remains were positively identified as Alyce C. Peterson of Stillwater, Minnesota. Ms. Peterson passed away in July 2001 at the age of 91 from natural causes at a local Minnesota hospital. Investigators worked with Alyce Peterson’s family to determine what happened with Peterson’s remains following her death.
On December 17, 2025, the St. Croix County District Attorney’s office issued criminal charges against Benjamin Carl Hanson, age 57, of Bayport, Minnesota for Hiding a Corpse in violation of Wisconsin Statute § 940.11(2) and Felony Theft, in violation of Wisconsin Statute § 943.20(1)(a). Hanson was identified as a former employee of a local funeral home that provided funeral arrangements for Alyce Peterson.
Mr. Hanson has the presumption of innocence, and is innocent unless proven guilty.
To preserve the integrity of the ongoing prosecution, the Sheriff’s Office will not release additional details while the criminal case remains active.
The Sheriff’s Office wishes to express its condolences and appreciation to the family of Alyce Peterson and respectfully requests privacy as they grieve the renewed attention surrounding their loved one’s death.
