An abandoned newborn baby girl, known as 'Angel Baby Doe,' was recently identified by authorities in Texas, 23 years after her tragic death. The infant was discovered in a ditch in Johnson County, Texas, in 2001, wrapped in a jacket with her umbilical cord still attached. It was determined that she had been born alive, likely outside of a medical facility.
The child, who tragically lost her life due to lack of medical care, was found by a local resident who was picking up cans along the roadside. The mother, identified as Shelby Stotts through DNA samples, was charged with second-degree manslaughter in connection to the baby's death.
For over two decades, investigators had been working to identify the abandoned infant, following various leads and tips without success. In 2021, the case was reopened when evidence was submitted to a forensic genetic genealogy company, Othram. Through extensive genetic research, the company was able to develop a DNA profile for the baby and provide law enforcement with new leads.
With this new information, investigators were able to trace potential relatives of the infant, ultimately leading to the identification of the mother. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of continued efforts in solving cold cases and seeking justice for victims, no matter how much time has passed.
