Bakersfield, CA – A new DNA breakthrough has given investigators in Kern County fresh hope in solving the 2010 murder of beloved local baker Juanita Francisco. The Kern County Sheriff’s Office announced a renewed push this week in the long-unsolved case, releasing a new cold case video detailing recent forensic progress.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Francisco—known for her warmth and generosity as the heart behind La Especial Bakery—was found murdered on November 23, 2010, just days before Thanksgiving. Her death left a lasting wound in the Bakersfield community. Despite early DNA evidence from the crime scene, no match was ever made—until now.
Detective Ashley Sanchez recently revived the case, collaborating with forensic genealogy experts at Othram, a Texas-based lab that specializes in identifying suspects through advanced DNA analysis. The technology, which cross-references public DNA databases, has helped law enforcement nationwide solve decades-old cases and bring closure to victims’ families.
Officials say this latest testing may finally provide leads in identifying Francisco’s killer. “This technology gives families hope,” said investigators, encouraging community members to share the department’s new awareness video and assist with funding DNA testing through public donations.
Anyone with information about the murder is urged to contact the Kern County Sheriff’s Office at (661) 861-3110 or Kern Secret Witness at (661) 322-4040.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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