The mother of a newborn baby discovered dead in a dumpster in California nearly 40 years ago has been arrested, accused of murder after she was identified using DNA technology. The newborn baby girl was found by a man rummaging for recyclables in a dumpster behind a business in the 5400 block of La Sierra Avenue in Riverside on Oct. 13, 1987, Riverside Police said. The department was aided by Season of Justice, a nonprofit that provides financial aid for investigative agencies and families to solve cold cases using DNA analysis and forensic genealogy. Avila, who was 19 at the time of the child’s death, was located across the country in Shelby, North Carolina. “Thanks to the persistent efforts of our investigators and partners, this victim now has an identity, bringing resolution to the case,” Riverside Police Chief Larry Gonzalez said in a statement.

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Persons: Othram, Othman, Melissa Jean Allen Avila, Avila, Larry D, She's, Larry Gonzalez Organizations: recyclables, Riverside Police, Case Unit, Smith Correctional, NBC News, Authorities, ” Riverside Police Locations: California, Sierra, Riverside, Texas, Shelby , North Carolina, Riverside County