In October 2020, the remains of a young girl were discovered in a rural area of Graham County, Arizona, with no immediate clues to her identity. For months, she remained known only as a Jane Doe.
In partnership with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, Astrea contributed whole genome sequencing and SNP profile generation, helping convert degraded evidence into a usable DNA SNP profile. This enabled downstream forensic genetic genealogy and investigative work.
In part through these efforts, the victim was identified as Cadance Langley, a 14-year-old girl. DNA analysis allowed investigators to move the case forward.
The identification helped advance the homicide investigation, ultimately leading to charges against her mother, who later accepted a plea deal and was sentenced to 25 years in prison for Cadance’s murder.
Cadance is no longer a Jane Doe. Her name—and her story—have been restored.
Further Reading & Sources