Remains found behind mill identified as mob victim missing since 1993

This undated photo shows Steven DiSarro, who disappeared in 1993 and whose remains were found behind a Rhode Island mill this past March (DiSarro family photo)

Human remains found behind a Rhode Island mill in March have been identified as those of a Massachusetts nightclub manager who disappeared in 1993.

The FBI said Thursday that Steven A. DiSarro was identified through DNA analysis. DiSarro was 43 years old when he was reported missing by his wife.

"For 23 years, the family of Mr. DiSarro has been awaiting news of his whereabouts," FBI special agent in charge Harold Shaw said in an emailed statement. "The thoughts and prayers of everyone in the FBI are with them during this difficult time. Our investigation will continue to pursue those responsible for Mr. DiSarro's death in an effort to bring them to justice."

DiSarro managed a South Boston nightclub called The Channel and was an associate of the son of mob boss "Cadillac Frank” Salemme. Salemme was sentenced to five years in prison in 2008 after he admitted to misleading investigators by falsely suggesting that a rival mob leader was involved in DiSarro's disappearance.

The Boston Globe reported that Boston gangster Stephen "The Rifleman" Flemmi told investigators in 2003 that he saw Salemme's son, also called Frank, strangle DiSarro at a home in Sharon, Mass. Flemmi said "Cadillac Frank" told him that DiSarros' body was buried at a Rhode Island construction site.

Salemme has denied any involvement in DiSarro's disappearance or death.

DiSarro's wife Pamela thanked the FBI for not giving up on the case and for finding his remains after all these years.

"We look forward to the conclusion of the FBI's investigation so we can learn as much as possible about what really happened to Steven and finally get some closure for our family," she said.

The remains were recovered by an FBI evidence response team on March 31 after they received an anonymous tip. The mill had previously been raided last year for an illegal marijuana growing operation. About 1,400 marijuana plants, cash and a gun were recovered in that operation.

The owner of the property, 69-year-old reputed mob associate William L. Ricci, has pleaded guilty to federal drug charges as part of a deal with prosecutors.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.