Nevada investigators seeking ID of woman Dentists asked to review radiographs

September 29, 2016

By Kelly Soderlund

Henderson, Nev. — Police are seeking dentists’ help in identifying a woman who was found slain on the side of the road in 1980.

The victim was found on Oct. 5, 1980, near Arroyo Grande and Lake Mead Parkway in Henderson, Nevada. Detectives with the City of Henderson police department have investigated this case since the day the victim was found, and believe she is from the greater Las Vegas Valley area, said Joe Ebert, homicide investigator.

The white female, known to investigators as Jane Arroyo Grande Doe, is believed to have been between 15-19 years old, weighed 103 pounds, was 5 feet 2 inches and had brown hair and blue eyes. She had ligature wire in the area of tooth #27, believed to be the result of a jaw fracture.

Because of her X-rays and the condition of her teeth, Mr. Ebert believes the victim visited the dentist on a regular basis. He encourages dentists to look at the radiographs in case they may have treated her in the past.

I am often asked how long should dental records be kept?  Each state has laws regarding the storage and accessibility of dental records.  I have always advocated for keeping hard copy x-rays and charts forever especially for children under the age of 21.  After so many years, it is a long shot to find out who this girl is but always worth a try.  Giving peace to the family and perhaps finding the murderer is the goal.