DNA Match Identifies 1998 El Cajon Homicide Victim After Decades

The El Cajon Police Department has identified a woman whose body was found in a ravine in El Cajon in 1998 as Alicia Ledezma Sanchez. Her remains were discovered partially decomposed in August 1998, and initial efforts, including a forensic sculpture in 2003 and DNA testing in 2008, failed to identify her. In 2023, volunteers from the cold-case unit collaborated with Othram Labs and Parabon Labs using advanced DNA techniques and genetic genealogy, revealing her ancestral roots in Michoacán, Mexico, and potential family members. A social media post in August 2025 led to contact from a possible relative, and a DNA match with Sanchez's son confirmed her identity. Sanchez's death has been classified as a homicide, although the cause of death and details of the investigation remain undisclosed. Authorities continue to seek information about her death and encourage the public to provide tips to aid the investigation.