After languishing in the cold case files for over two decades, the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) has finally identified the woman whose life was cut short; her body was found discarded in an Algiers field back in 2002. Thanks to cutting-edge technology borrowed from the FBI, a name has been given to the victim: 49-year-old Lelia Ann May Malley of Long Beach, Mississippi.
Discovered without identification at the 1200 block of Eliza Street on February 24, 2002, her murder became a mystery, her identity obscured until the implementation of Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG) by the FBI. As reported by the NOPD News, this collaboration marked a first for the FBI's New Orleans branch, bringing a glimmer of solace to a family haunted by unanswered questions. Until six months ago, efforts to uncover her identity had turned cold.
Kimberly Bergeron, May's daughter, recounted seeing her mother last around the turn of the millennium. She now pleads for any information regarding her mother's demise, telling the NOPD News, "I'm asking if anyone has any information about a suspect or has information about her or who had known her in the past or anything about this investigation to come forward." Her gratitude towards the NOPD and the FBI was evident as well for shedding light on her mother's fate.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Lyonel Myrthil, in an expression of collective pride for his team's efforts, hoped that this technological advancement would usher in answers for many more families in limbo. NOPD Deputy Superintendent Ryan Lubrano also commented on the progress, hinting at closure that the NOPD now seeks to provide for the family of Malley. Nearly a quarter-century after her murder, the NOPD is reigniting the investigation into Malley's death.
Instrumental assistance in the case also came from LSU FACES Lab, NamUs, the North Louisiana Crime Lab, and the Orleans Parish Coroner's Office. Attached to the NOPD News release, photos of Malley, taken roughly 24 years before her death, accompany a FACES lab composite image crafted in 2006. As the investigation continues, anyone with relevant information on Malley or her untimely death is urged to reach out to the NOPD Homicide Unit at (504) 658-5300 or to contact Crimestoppers anonymously at (504) 822-1111.
