Cold Case Mystery Near Badlands: Public's Help Still Sought

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — The body of a woman found 26 years ago near the Badlands area remains unidentified, and on Thursday the Riverside County Regional Cold Case Homicide Team released a video showing a sketch of the victim and jewelry she was wearing in hopes the public can help investigators learn who she was.

On Jan. 27, 1996, the woman's body was found near a trash pile in a hilly area about 20 feet south of eastbound Highway 60, about a mile and a half east of Gilman Springs Road. Investigators believe she was murdered at the location, just a few hours before the grim discovery, according to the Riverside County District Attorney's Office.

During a 1996 autopsy, a forensic pathologist found the body had a surgical scar believed to be from a cesarian.

"Cold Case Team investigators believe the victim may have at least one child who may still be seeking answers about their mother," the DA's office posted in a news release.

Investigators describe the victim as Latina, possibly 30-45 years old, about 5-feet-1-inch tall, weighing about 130 pounds.

"A forensic dental examination done in 1996 showed her teeth had been well maintained and she received quality dental care. Her clothing was clean and had been well maintained," the DA's office reported.

On Thursday, the DA's office released a video showing a sketch of the victim and jewelry found on her (watch below).

Cold Case Homicide Team investigators ask that anyone who may have any information regarding the woman's identity call 951-955-2777 or use the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department website homicide tip form here: https://www.riversidesheriff.org/528/Contact-Us