Utah Department of Public Safety

Nikole Kistina Bakoles

This case was originally an unidentified found remains case. Several human bones were found along I-80 by duck hunters on October 8, 2000. The remains were located in a field off the I-80 frontage road about 1.5 miles east of Saltair, a local concert hall. Extensive efforts were made to determine the identity of the remains including isotope analysis, and comparison with DNA and dental records to numerous missing persons across the US. The remains came to be known affectionately as “Saltair Sally.”

In August of 2012 the remains were identified, through DNA comparisons to a family member, as belonging to Nikole Bakoles. Nikole, age 20, was the mother to a young daughter at the time of her disappearance and death. She was from the Washington area, where her family still resides. Her family had little contact with her after she moved to Salt Lake City in 1998 with her boyfriend, Joel Chaudeoin.The contact stopped all together in 2000. They reported her missing in 2003. Nikole was last seen March 15, 2000. Mr. Chaudoin stated they had an argument and that he left. He claims that was the last time he ever saw her. Acquaintances of Nikole and Joel are encouraged to contact UPD detectives to aid in the investigation into Nikole’s death.

Contact Detective Ben Pender (385) 468-9816

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