An arrest has finally been made after nearly four decades of searching for answers in the mysterious case of a baby found dead in a California dumpster.
Melissa Jean Allen Avila, 55, was identified as the baby’s mother and arrested in Shelby, North Carolina, on August 5.
On October 13, 1987, a man searching for recyclables behind a business in the 5400 block of La Sierra Avenue found a newborn baby girl lying dead in the trash.
The girl’s death was declared a homicide and the case was stalled until 2020, when Riverside Police Department The Unsolved Homicide Unit was formed and the investigation reopened.
“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.
Melissa Jean Allen Avila (pictured), 55, was identified as the baby’s mother and arrested in Shelby, North Carolina, on August 5.
‘We will remain dedicated to seeking justice for the homicide victims and ensuring that their families find closure.’
Using DNA technology, police identified Avila, then 19, as the baby’s mother.
Detectives said they have no reason to believe the baby’s father had any criminal culpability in the killing.
Avila was located with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service Carolina Regional Fugitive Task Force and extradited to Riverside County.
She was booked into the Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility and is being held on $1.1 million bail.
Ávila was 19 years old in 1987 when her newborn baby was found abandoned and dead in the trash (pictured) by a man who was rummaging through recyclable materials.
Her arraignment is scheduled for Sept. 9 and she is expected to be charged with first-degree murder, according to KTLA.
In 2001, California enacted the ‘Safe Arms New Newborns’ law, which allows parents to give up their babies.
A parent or legal guardian may confidentially surrender a newborn, three days old or younger, to any hospital emergency room or fire station. If the baby has not been abused, the parent or guardian will not be charged with child abandonment.