1. Cold case homicide solved after 4 decades
2. Identity of 1983 murder victim finally revealed.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
A woman who was found dead in Orange County more than four decades ago has finally been identified, bringing closure to a long-standing mystery.
The discovery of the unidentified woman’s remains dates back to April 1983, when children playing in a storm drain near Canada and Old Trabuco roads in what is now Lake Forest stumbled upon a human skull. Subsequent excavation efforts led to the recovery of approximately 70% of the female victim’s remains, as reported by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD).
Forensic analysis revealed that the victim was a Black or mixed-race female aged between 18 and 24 years, with a slight build and a distinctive gold tooth, according to OCSD.
In a recent breakthrough, investigators were able to identify the victim through DNA analysis. The genetic profile obtained from the remains was submitted to the National Missing and Unidentified Person System, leading to a successful match with the victim’s relatives.
The victim has been identified as Maritza Glean Grimmett, a native of Panama who married a U.S. Marine in 1978 and later relocated to the United States with her family. Grimmett went missing in the late 1970s, with her family losing contact with her after she mentioned her intention to travel to California.
Despite the identification of Maritza Glean Grimmett, the circumstances surrounding her death remain a mystery. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department is actively investigating the case and seeking information from the public to help solve the homicide.
Appeal for Information
Investigators are urging anyone with information about Maritza Glean Grimmett’s death to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. Those with relevant details are encouraged to contact Investigator Bob Taft at 714-647-7045 or submit information via email to coldcase@ocsheriff.gov.
Anonymous tips can be provided to O.C. Crime Stoppers by calling 1-855-847-6227 or visiting www.occrimestoppers.org. Any information, no matter how small, could prove crucial in solving this long-standing cold case.
