Advancements in DNA technology and forensic genealogy are significantly impacting cold case investigations, bringing closure to families and communities that have sought answers for decades. In 2025, several high-profile cases in Minnesota showcased the power of these developments, driven by collaboration among law enforcement, forensic labs, and genealogists.
Roy G. Benn: A Long-Awaited Resolution
Roy G. Benn, who disappeared on September 25, 1967, has been identified following the discovery of his remains. At the age of 69, Benn vanished without a trace after leaving the King’s Supper Club in Sartell, where witnesses recalled seeing him dressed in a suit and carrying a significant amount of cash. For many years, his 1963 metallic blue Buick Electra also remained missing.
The breakthrough came on August 10, 2025, when a fisherman reported an unusual sonar reading on the Mississippi River. Following this tip, authorities dispatched a dive team to investigate, leading to the retrieval of Benn’s vehicle. In November, the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that human remains found inside the car belonged to Benn. Initial investigations suggest that he died in a car crash, with no foul play suspected.
Uncovering the Identity of Rachel Marie Doe
Another significant case resolved through advanced DNA testing involved the identity of a newborn found abandoned in Blaine, Minnesota, in 1983. The baby, known as Rachel Marie Doe, was delivered by a teenager who concealed her pregnancy from everyone, including the child’s father and her own parents. Following the birth, the mother left the infant in a public area, hoping someone would find her.
Through forensic genealogy, investigators were able to connect with the mother and father of the child. Anoka County Attorney Brad John confirmed that no criminal charges would be filed, respecting the family’s privacy. The autopsy findings indicated that the cause of death was a tragic accident, but important questions about the circumstances surrounding the abandonment remain.
The Case of Baby Angel
In a more recent case, the identity of a baby girl known as “Baby Angel” was revealed in 2025. Discovered in a white tote bag along the Mississippi River on September 5, 2011, the infant weighed just 7 pounds and was deceased. This heartbreaking incident garnered widespread attention in the community of Winona, where residents organized a public funeral attended by over 150 people.
In April of this year, authorities announced that the mother of Baby Angel had been identified as Jennifer Nichole Baechle, a respected adjunct English professor at Winona State University. Baechle has since been charged with two counts of second-degree manslaughter. The case continues to unfold, with questions surrounding whether Baby Angel was born alive or stillborn.
As the legal proceedings progress, Baechle’s attorney has filed a motion to withhold evidence, emphasizing discrepancies in the autopsy reports. The next hearing is scheduled for January 14, 2026, as the community remains invested in uncovering the full truth behind this tragic case.
The advancements in DNA technology and the collaboration among various organizations have created a renewed hope for families seeking closure in cold cases. As more stories emerge, the ability to solve these long-standing mysteries continues to evolve, offering a glimpse into justice and resolution for those affected.
