He carried no personal identification and a search of a knapsack he'd had in his possession, revealed some clothing and personal items, but virtually nothing to help investigators determine his identity. In his pocket, there was a silver brooch, shaped like a rose, sometimes referred to as "The Christmas Rose". The individual may have been in Kamloops, BC, at Padova City Resorts Inc., as he was in possession of one of their T-shirts.

One of the best leads in this investigation was contact from a witness who believed he had been in the company of the unknown male for a few days. He described the two traveling together, hitchhiking on July 22nd from Strathmore, Alberta to Swift Current and then to Regina, arriving in the Queen City on July 24, 1995.

The witness gave police insights into the habits, moods and mannerisms of "John Doe" and recalled bits of conversation between them. They learned that his manners were impeccable, his nails appeared manicured, he wore neatly cut hair, a close shave, was well dressed and well groomed. The unknown male's travelling partner stated that the unknown male said his name was Brian and he was from Ontario.
He did not seem to be a drifter. He didn't know street slang, and barely knew how to thumb a ride. He enjoyed Stephen King novels and liked discussing politics. He constantly wrote in a diary, but the book was never found. He used a silver fountain pen. 

Police believe he had recently broken up with a woman named Kathy and was probably on his way back east toward where he'd come from. He called himself "David" but it may not be his true name.  Police believe he may have been from the Maritimes or New England.

John Doe is buried in the Southeast portion of Regina's Riverside Cemetery.