DNA Identifies 15-Year-Old Michelle Collier 48 Years After California Vineyard Homicide
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 30
DNA Identifies 15-Year-Old Michelle Collier 48 Years After California Vineyard Homicide
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 30
Summary
Michelle Collier, missing from Fresno since February 1978, was confirmed as the teen long known as “Arvin Jane Doe,” whose remains were found in a shallow grave near Arvin four months later.
A 2025 forensic genetic genealogy push with Othram produced the breakthrough after decades of failed fingerprint, dental and DNA efforts; a family DNA comparison confirmed the match in October 2025.
Kern County investigators said the identification reopens—not closes—the homicide case, because the exact cause of death and any suspect details remain unknown.
Collier’s remains were returned to her family in April 2026 after burial as a Jane Doe in 1978, giving relatives long-delayed closure while they urged the killer to be held accountable.
The sheriff’s office is now seeking anyone who knew Collier or has information about her life, disappearance or death, saying knowing the victim’s identity changes the direction of the investigation.