New Jersey State Police held its second annual “Missing in New Jersey” event this weekend, with the goal of clearing long-term missing persons cases in the state and providing closure for families.

The mysterious disappearance of 72-year-old Clifton grandmother Julie Madsen has left one family torn. Her son Guy Madsen attended the event to learn about the resources available to him and his family in their search. 

Families of people who have gone missing were able to attend the free event at Rowan University Saturday. Families were asked to bring items to help identify loved ones, such as photographs, fingerprints, dental records or X-rays. The family members also had the opportunity to give DNA samples to be checked against a national database.

MORE: 'Missing in New Jersey' event hopes to provide closure for families

Tammy Csaszar submitted her DNA in last year’s event during the search for missing brother Jason Grabert, who was last seen in 2010 after being diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia. Jason’s remains were discovered in Florida, where he had committed suicide, shortly after.

Forensic scientists at the event say they hope to find more matches this year.

State police say that there are more than 1,000 people listed as “long-term missing” in New Jersey.

Those with missing family members can access more information on the resources available to them here.