DNA phenotyping used to create scientific approximation of mother of deceased baby

The Calgary Police Service has used DNA phenotyping to create an image that has a likeness to the mother of a baby that was found deceased in a dumpster on Sunday, Dec. 24, 2017. A composite sketch of the baby is also being released.

Investigators have recently sought the services of a DNA technology company in Virginia that specializes in DNA phenotyping, the process of predicting physical appearance and ancestry from unidentified DNA evidence.

This is the first time that CPS investigators are using this technology. After a plea to the public on Tuesday, Dec. 26, 2017, numerous tips were received. These tips have all been investigated and each person of interest has been eliminated, leading to no further investigative avenues to explore at this time.

Based on biological material found at the scene, a scientific approximation indicates that the mother is likely of mixed race with a fair skin complexion, possibly of European or Indigenous descent. Her hair is described as dark, likely brown or black. She has hazel eyes that may also appear green. Investigators want to make clear that the image that has been produced is not a definitive composite sketch.

The images are available on The City of Calgary Newsroom.

Autopsy results have indicated that at some point after birth the child was breathing on her own. Identifying the mother is seen as a necessary step to determine what led to the baby being placed in the dumpster and who is responsible for placing the baby there. This remains an undetermined death and, therefore, the mother is not being sought as a suspect.

Anyone who believes they have information on the identity of this woman or the events that led up to this incident is asked to contact the Homicide Tip Line at Homicide Tip Line at 403-428-8877,They may also call the Calgary Police Service at 403-266-1234 or Crime Stoppers anonymously through the following methods:

TALK: 1-800-222-8477

TYPE: www.calgarycrimestoppers.org

Case #17551669/3079