“Forensic science and new technology continue to assist with cold case investigations and to provide answers to families who have waited decades for information and some kind of closure. This is very important work done by dedicated law enforcement and forensic science professionals.”

CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

CALAVERAS COUNTY – On April 10, 2025, the Calaveras Cold Case Task Force was joined by elected officials, and others as they prepared the remains of Brenda Sue O’Conner for transport to her family.

The remains, found in a remote area during the investigation of a serial killing case, had been interred in a San Andreas Crypt along with more than 1000 unidentified pieces of human remains until their exhumation in 2021. The exhumation was conducted by the Cold Case Task Force, which believed DNA technology had advanced far enough to facilitate the possibility of identification.

The remains were identified in combination due to advanced analysis by the California Department of Justice, extensive state-of-the-art work by private laboratories, and the use of Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy. Task Force members have spent over three years on the identification of the crypt remains in addition to their primary duties.

These additional investigative efforts have provided answers to the family of Brenda O’Connor, and the return of Brenda’s remains.

Work is continuing to identify remains that are not yet identified, and at the conclusion of the project, those not identified will be returned to the San Andreas Crypt.