Angel Baby Doe Identified: How Othram’s DNA Technology Solved a 20-Year-Old Cold Case in The Woodlands, Texas
In November 2001, the lifeless body of a newborn girl was found along Briar Oaks Road. The baby, wrapped in a jacket with her umbilical cord still attached, remained unidentified for over two decades despite extensive efforts by the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office. However, in June 2021, a breakthrough occurred when the Sheriff’s Office collaborated with Othram, who successfully developed a DNA profile from the infant’s remains using forensic-grade genome sequencing. This allowed their genetic genealogy team to trace familial connections and ultimately identify the infant’s mother as Shelby Stotts.
The death of Angel Baby Doe broke the hearts of the deputies and officers involved in this case. Despite years of efforts, the infant remained unidentified, leading to an extensive investigation by the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office. The circumstances indicated foul play, and it was crucial that justice be served for this child who did not have a family to advocate for her or grieve for her.
Stotts has been indicted on multiple charges, including second-degree manslaughter, for allegedly causing her daughter’s death through reckless actions. The case highlights Othram’s fifteenth successful resolution of a cold case in Texas through its DNA technology, funded by a DNASolves® crowdfunding initiative. The role of Othram in The Woodlands demonstrates the significance of scientific advancements in solving long-standing mysteries and providing justice to families and communities.
As legal proceedings against Stotts continue, authorities stress the crucial role of DNA technology in resolving cold cases and ensuring accountability. The use of advanced DNA technology has revolutionized forensics and opened up new avenues for solving previously unsolvable cases. With more funding and technological advancements expected in this field, there is hope that many more cold cases can be solved and families can finally find closure.
