The Weld County Sheriff's Office recently made a significant breakthrough in the county’s oldest cold case by identifying the victim, known for over five decades as "Jane Doe 1973." Following advancements in DNA and genetic genealogy, the remains found near the St. Vrain River in 1973 have now been identified as those of a young girl, according to Denver 7.
In a revelation that wraps the arcane mystery with a visage and a name, "Jane Doe 1973" has been confirmed to be Roxanne Leadbeater, a revelation made possible by the perseverance of law enforcement and advancements in forensic technology. “Advancements in DNA technology have given us a powerful tool to help solve cold cases and bring long overdue answers to the families of victims who were never forgotten,” said CBI Director Chris Schaefer, per 9NEWS. Leadbeater's immediate family was deceased, and some first cousins survived her.
Despite the identification of Leadbeater, the case remains active as detectives continue to probe the circumstances of her death. Detective Kastilahn of the Weld County Sheriff's Office expressed relief and determination to uncover the events that led to Leadbeater's demise. "This is our oldest cold case; I am glad Roxanne has finally been identified, and some of her remaining family members have gotten answers about what happened to her. Going forward, I hope to discover what events led to her death, and how she ended up here," said Detective Kastilahn, as obtained by KKTV.
