LUDINGTON — More than 30 years after the killing of a Mason County teenager, investigators say they are closer to finding her killer.

Melissa Simmons, 15, was last seen June 23, 1993, walking to a Scottville Wesco. Her body was found later that day in the Pere Marquette River by a fisherman. The medical examiner ruled her death a homicide.

Detectives recently uncovered new evidence that was sent to Virginia for testing. Investigators there have built a DNA profile, and analysis is ongoing.

As part of the renewed investigation, the Mason County Sheriff’s Office exhumed Simmons’ body from a cemetery — the first time the agency has ever done so, according to the sheriff.

No suspects or arrests have been announced. Since Simmons’ death, deputies have interviewed hundreds of people, includi

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