Dead Newborn Found In RivCo Dumpster, Mom Arrested 37 Years Later

RIVERSIDE, CA — On October 13, 1987, a man rummaging for recyclables found a dead baby girl inside a Riverside dumpster. She was a newborn and her death was ruled a homicide.

Now, 37 years later, the tiny child's mother was arrested in Shelby, North Carolina, extradited to Riverside County, and charged with murder.

Melissa Jean Allen Avila, 55, was booked into Banning's Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility on Aug. 5 and released two days later on $1 million bail. She is scheduled for arraignment Sept. 9.

The decades-long investigation into the case started in the 5400 block of La Sierra Avenue in Riverside where the baby was found. Riverside police homicide detectives worked to determine who the child was, why she was dumped and who did, but a suspect was never identified.

But by 2020, DNA forensic technology was in widespread use, so the Riverside Police Department’s Homicide Cold Case Unit reopened the baby Jane Doe case. Eventually, investigators were able to identify the child’s mother as Avila.

Avila was 19 years old at the time of the baby’s death and detectives have no reason to believe the child's father had any involvement in the child's killing, according to Riverside police. A possible motive was not disclosed.

With assistance from the U.S. Marshals Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force, Riverside police were able to track down Avila in North Carolina.

"Thanks to the persistent efforts of our investigators and partners, this victim now has an identity, bringing resolution to the case," said Riverside Police Chief Larry Gonzalez. "We will remain dedicated to seeking justice for homicide victims and ensuring their families find closure."

California’s "Safe Arms for Newborns" law established in 2001 allows a parent or legal guardian to confidentially surrender a newborn, 3 days old or younger, to any hospital emergency room or fire station. If the newborn is not been abused or neglected, the person can surrender the baby without fear of arrest or prosecution for child abandonment. For more information about Safely Surrender Baby Sites and resources, visit California’s Department of Social Services website.

Anyone with information about the Avila case can contact the Homicide Cold Case Unit at 951-320-8000 or HomicideColdCase@RiversideCA.gov.