The Mysterious Case of Jaymie Renee West: Forensic DNA Testing Solved a Cold Case From 2018

In August 2018, the discovery of a woman’s body in a Stockton, California pond sparked a mystery that would take years to unravel. 

Thanks to forensic genetic genealogy, the unidentified woman has finally been named: Jaymie Renee West, a 28-year-old reported missing in 2018. 

This breakthrough was achieved through the collaboration of the Stockton Police Department, the San Joaquin County Office of the Medical Examiner, and Othram Lab.

For years, Jaymie’s identity remained a mystery, leaving her family and investigators desperate for answers. 

Now that she has been identified, her family can finally find the closure they need and begin to move forward with a sense of peace.

The Discovery: A Body in the Pond

On August 10, 2018, Stockton police responded to a grim discovery in a field near West Eight Mile and North Rio Blanco roads. 

A woman’s body was found in a pond, severely decomposed, making identification nearly impossible. 

Investigators estimated she was between 25 and 50 years old, approximately 5’8” tall, and weighed around 90 lbs.  

Also at the crime scene, some personal items: a size 9.5 cork wedge sandal and a copper-colored braided ring, were found.

These details, along with her remains, were entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs)as case UP52688. 

Despite exhaustive efforts, the case grew cold, leaving investigators and Jaymie’s loved ones without answers.  

The Breakthrough: Forensic Genetic Genealogy

In 2022, hope emerged when the Stockton Police Department partnered with Othram, a Texas-based forensic lab specializing in advanced DNA testing. 

Using Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing®, Othram’s team developed a comprehensive DNA profile from skeletal evidence. 

Their in-house genealogy experts then used forensic genetic genealogy to generate investigative leads.  

David Mittelman, CEO of Othram, emphasized the importance of their work: “Every case deserves answers, no matter how much time has passed. We’re honored to help restore Jaymie Renee West’s identity and assist investigators in resolving this case.”  

This groundbreaking effort, funded by the Roads to Justice (RTJ) program, ultimately led to Jaymie’s identification.  

Born on September 21, 1989, Jaymie was just 28 years old when she died. 

According to loved ones,  she was reported missing in 2018 after she was last seen in Quincy, California on October 12. 

There’s a bit of confusion around the dates—like when she was found versus when she was last seen. 

However, there’s no clear reason or explanation for why that discrepancy exists in the official documents. 

Her family described her disappearance as “out of her character” and expressed deep concern for her well-being. 

At the time, it was believed she might have been traveling to Oakland or Las Vegas, cities where she had ties.  

The Road to Justice

While Jaymie’s identification marks a significant step forward, many questions remain. 

How did she end up in Stockton? 

What were the circumstances surrounding her death? 

Investigators are urging anyone with information to come forward.  

If you have any information about Jaymie Renee West or her case, please contact the Stockton Police Department at 209-937-8377 or the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Department at 209-468-4400. 

Tipsters can also call Stockton CrimeStoppers at 209-946-0600 and remain anonymous.