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The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) Cold Case Unit, in collaboration with forensic artist and George Mason University professor Joe Mullins, has created a lifelike bust of the victim, known only as Jane Doe.
Using a 3D-printed model of her skeletal remains, Mullins sculpted a depiction of the woman, believed to be a Black female in her late 20s to early 30s, in hopes that someone might recognize her.
Jane Doe’s body was discovered on May 28, 1973, near Foundry and Taylor Roads in Lincoln.
Despite extensive investigations at the time, authorities were unable to identify her or locate any suspects in her murder.
“This cold case illustrates law enforcement at its finest,” said Loudoun County Sheriff Mike Chapman. “I hope this relentless determination, combined with the renewed interest sparked by this incredible sculpture, not only leads to identifying the victim but also brings us closer to solving the murder.”
The reconstruction aligns with findings from forensic anthropologists who estimated that Jane Doe was approximately 5-foot-7, weighed 145 pounds, and had black hair.
She was last seen wearing an orange blouse, knit pants, and a plaid jacket. Unique details, including manicured nails painted purple and red, and a distinctive blue Swarovski stone ring on her right ring finger, could help trigger someone’s memory.
In 2023, Jane Doe’s remains were exhumed from an unmarked grave at Mount Olive Baptist Church Cemetery to extract DNA, officials said.
A profile was created, but to date, investigators have been unable to find any closely related family members.
However, distant relatives have led detectives to believe she may have ties to Georgia, Louisiana, Michigan, or Mississippi, with surnames like Booker, Shepherd, or Loving potentially linked to her.
Professor Mullins, who teaches forensic figure sculpting at George Mason, explained how projects like this give his students practical experience while aiding real-world investigations.
“This effort to create a portrait from the inside out allows students to experience art with a purpose, helping law enforcement agencies identify victims and potentially solve crimes,” he said.
Anyone with information that could help identify Jane Doe or provide leads in the case is urged to contact the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office at (703) 777-1021.
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