DNA IDs mother in 1983 Blaine infant case
Forensic DNA analysis by Othram has identified the mother of the newborn found in 1983 on Main Street between MN 65 and Radisson Road in Blaine, confirming the infant as "Rachel Marie Doe." The mother told investigators she gave birth alone at home, found the baby unresponsive and believed it was stillborn before leaving the infant roadside; a community funeral was held in 1983 and the child was buried in a local church cemetery, authorities say the Midwest Medical Examiner’s re-examination could not determine live birth and relatives, including the father, were reportedly unaware of the pregnancy.
📌 Key Facts
- DNA analysis by forensic lab Othram identified the mother and led investigators to publicly name the infant “Rachel Marie Doe” 42 years after her discovery.
- The newborn was found in 1983 on Main Street between MN 65 and Radisson Road in Blaine.
- The mother told investigators she gave birth alone at home, found the baby unresponsive, believed the infant was stillborn, and left her roadside hoping someone would find her.
- People close to both parents, including the father, were reportedly unaware of the pregnancy and birth.
- A community funeral was held in 1983 and the newborn was buried at a local church cemetery.
- Blaine Police Chief Brian Podany and Anoka County Sheriff Brad Wise provided statements on the case; a re-examination by the Midwest Medical Examiner could not determine whether the infant had been born alive.
- Authorities provided a public tip line for other cold cases: ACSOColdCases@anokacountymn.gov.
📰 Sources (2)
Blaine: Rachel Marie Doe, baby, identified 42 years later from DNA analysis
New information:
- Confirms the infant’s moniker as “Rachel Marie Doe” and pinpoints the discovery location on Main Street between MN 65 and Radisson Road.
- Identifies Othram as the forensic lab that performed the DNA work leading investigators to the mother.
- Adds that a community funeral was held in 1983 and the newborn was buried at a local church cemetery.
- Reports the mother’s account that she gave birth alone at home, found the baby unresponsive, believed it was stillborn, and left the infant roadside hoping someone would find her.
- Notes the father and people close to both parents were unaware of the pregnancy and birth.
- Includes fresh statements from Blaine Police Chief Brian Podany and Sheriff Brad Wise; reiterates the Midwest Medical Examiner’s re-exam could not determine live birth.
- Provides a public tip line for other cold cases: ACSOColdCases@anokacountymn.gov.