Skeletal Remains Found in 1995 Identified as Missing New York Teen
WATSONVILLE, CA — “On March 22, 1995, partial skeletal remains were discovered in a riverbed off Highway 129 east of Rogge Lane. For decades, the identity of the remains remained unknown, however DNA testing determined the decedent to be female. In 2019, the case was re-examined and sent for further forensic testing, including carbon dating, which determined that the decedent was likely born in the 1960s, with an estimated date of death between 1977 and 1984.
From 2022 to 2023, our office used advanced genetic genealogy to identify potential family members. Partnering with Othram, a leader in forensic DNA analysis, we were able to develop new investigative leads. As a result of this collaboration, and the work of our forensics team, we successfully identified the remains as those of 13-year-old Laura O’Malley from Queens, New York.
Laura O’Malley was reported missing in New York in August of 1975, and her family had not seen or heard from her since. It is not known when, or under what circumstances, Laura O’Malley arrived in California.
A special thank you to our volunteer genealogist, Deborah Medina, and Deputy Casandra Galotti for their tireless efforts in solving this case. The amount of dedication they poured into this was nothing short of incredible.
We are deeply grateful for our partnership with Othram and the use of forensic advancements that have provided long-awaited answers to Laura’s family. The circumstances surrounding her death are still under investigation, and anyone with information related to this case is urged to call our dispatch at 831-471-1121.”
