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Cold Case Solved: Woman Found in 1974 Identified by DNA
19 Aug
Summary
- Victim identified 50 years after remains found buried in California desert.
- Forensic investigative genetic genealogy led to the identification.
- Authorities are now investigating the circumstances of her death.
After 50 years, Rebecca Jean McMahan has been identified as the woman whose partially buried remains were discovered in the California desert. The discovery was made on January 19, 1974, in Hot Springs, Calif. Initial attempts to identify the victim using fingerprints and dental records were unsuccessful.
The case saw a breakthrough in 2024 when the Regional Cold Case Homicide Team re-examined it. Utilizing forensic investigative genetic genealogy, bone samples were analyzed, and a DNA profile was uploaded to a consumer ancestry database. This led to the identification of a potential relative, who provided DNA for confirmation.
McMahan was reported missing by her family on July 3, 1973, a month after she was last seen in Bell Gardens, Calif. At the time of her disappearance, she was 19 years old and had mentioned plans for a vacation in Palm Springs. Investigators are now seeking any information or leads regarding her death.
Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact the Riverside County Regional Cold Case Homicide Team. They also recommend public participation in DNA submission to ancestry databases to aid in identifying unknown victims and solving cold cases.
