“Identifying the remains of individuals believed to be victims of homicide is an important first step in solving a murder case. This work provides long-awaited answers to families, helps investigators pursue those responsible, and ultimately contributes to public safety.”
CSLEA President Alan Barcelona
CALAVERAS COUNTY – On September 14, 2026, the Calaveras Cold Case Task Force announced that it has identified the woman whose body was found October 9th, 2015, beneath the Parrotts Ferry Bridge. For more than a decade, the remains were known as “Parrotts Ferry Jane Doe”. Parrotts Ferry Jane Doe has been identified as Anita Kathleen Ranker, born February 18, 1969, in Santa Clara County.
Ranker’s remains were discovered partially submerged in the historically low, drought-era level of the Stanislaus River beneath the Parrotts Ferry Bridge. The original investigation revealed that the remains belonged to an unidentified female who was likely the victim of homicide.
In 2021, following the creation of the Calaveras Cold Case Task Force, the case was reopened with hopes of using advancements in forensic science to provide answers.
The remains were sent to numerous laboratories, each using cutting-edge technology to attempt to extract DNA suitable for Forensic Genetic Genealogy. The extraction of DNA was complicated by the degradation of the remains, which occurred from being underwater for many years. Resolve Forensics of Utah provided over three years of laboratory services while assigned to this case, making significant progress on extracting DNA suitable for Forensic Genetic Genealogy from the remains.
In June 2026, Astrea Forensics in California successfully extracted usable DNA. Following the successful extraction of DNA, Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy work conducted by Identifinders International led to the discovery of Anita’s relatives, who voluntarily provided a DNA reference sample.
The DNA reference samples have confirmed the identity of Anita Ranker through a two-pronged approach: private laboratory work and the California Department of Justice.
Investigators believe Ranker disappeared prior to the year 2000. She was never reported missing, and a person of interest has been identified. Ranker may have been living in or around Murphys at the time of her death.
The Calaveras County Cold Case Task Force extended its appreciation to the donors, forensic specialists, partner agencies, investigators, and community members who have supported this investigation over the years.
“Every unidentified person represents a family, friends, and a life story that deserves to be known,” said Sheriff Rachelle Whiting. “The identification of Parrotts Ferry Jane Doe is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of the Cold Case Task Force and the forensic partners who continued working toward the goal of restoring Anita Ranker’s name.”
The Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone with information related to this investigation to contact the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office at (209) 754-6500 or provide information through the department’s anonymous tip line at (209) 754-6030.
