A Cold Case Cracked: Family Reunited After Decades

In a remarkable turn of events, a decades-old mystery has been solved, thanks to the efforts of forensic science students and advanced technology.

The Case of "Jane Doe"

• 1971: A woman was found injured in a field in Woodstock, Maryland.
• She was treated in a hospital but never regained consciousness and passed away two months later.
• For years, she was known only as "Jane Doe".

The Breakthrough

• Recent Times: A team of dedicated students from Loyola University Maryland played a crucial role in identifying the woman.
• They:
• Sent fingerprints to various police departments.
• Created facial reconstructions.
• Tested old histology slides for DNA.
• Their hard work, combined with modern technology, led to a breakthrough.

Identification and Reunion

• The woman was identified as Sadie Belle Murray, also known as Sarah Belle Sharkey.
• Born in Pennsylvania in 1924.
• Her identification brought closure to her two living adult children:
• Charles Sharkey
• Mildred Cantwell
• Reunion: The siblings, now in their late 70s, were reunited after nearly 70 years apart.

Quotes from the Family

• Charles Sharkey: "I thought I'd never connect again with my family."
• Mildred Cantwell: "Being reunited with my brother is awesome."

Ongoing Investigation

• Police are now working to uncover more details about:
• Why Sharkey was in Howard County.
• The circumstances surrounding her murder.
• The case highlights the importance of modern forensic techniques and the dedication of those who work tirelessly to solve cold cases.