After more than 27 years of searching for clues, authorities have finally identified the body of a murder victim dumped on the side of the Moreno Valley (60) Freeway. The individual has been confirmed as Juana Rosas Zagal, a 41-year-old woman from Los Angeles. The discovery of her remains took place on January 27, 1996, approximately 1.5 miles east of Gilman Springs Road, in an area called the Badlands, known for its rugged and barren terrain.
In recent years, the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office and the sheriff’s department had previously showcased the cold case murder in hopes of generating leads. During that time, Master Investigator Jason Corey emphasized the need for new investigative leads to bring justice to Zagal and her loved ones.
The county Regional Cold Case Homicide Team employed various DNA screening technologies, such as Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy and the National Missing & Unidentified Persons System, to identify the victim. The California Department of Justice-Riverside Crime Lab played a crucial role in the positive identification of Juana Rosas Zagal.
Having nearly lost hope of finding their mother, Zagal’s four daughters can now have closure. The exact cause of her death has not been disclosed, and robbery does not appear to be the motive.
Several pieces of jewelry were found on the victim, including a gold-colored religious pendant depicting Jesus and the Virgin Mary, two rings (one multi-colored and the other resembling an engagement ring), a Japona watch, and a necklace with an attached rose. The D.A.’s office believes that friends, neighbors, or colleagues of Juana may have information to help clarify her disappearance.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the investigative team at 951-955-0740 or 951-955-2777.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
