Deep Dive
Why did it take nearly 40 years to identify Valentine Sally?
The case remained unsolved for decades due to limited forensic technology and lack of leads. It wasn't until advancements in DNA testing and forensic genetic genealogy were applied that her identity was finally confirmed.
What were the key physical characteristics of Valentine Sally?
She was a white female, approximately 5'4" to 5'5" tall, weighing 120 to 125 pounds, with blue eyes, blonde or strawberry blonde hair about 9.5 inches long, and several moles on her chest. She had a pierced left ear and scars on her left foot and thigh.
What was the cause of death for Valentine Sally?
The medical examiner suspected she was suffocated, although no definitive cause of death was determined due to decomposition and animal damage to her body.
Who was the older man seen with Valentine Sally at the truck stop?
The man was described as a white male, 60 to 65 years old, wearing a cowboy hat with a peacock feather, a brown vest with a patchwork design, and no name was given. His connection to Valentine Sally remains unknown.
How was Valentine Sally finally identified?
Genetic genealogy, led by genealogist Barbara Rae Venter, identified a female cousin through DNA databases. This led to the discovery of Carolyn Celeste Eaton as Valentine Sally.
What was the role of Patty Wilkins in the case?
Patty Wilkins, a waitress, reported seeing a young girl matching Valentine Sally's description at her family's truck stop. She provided crucial details, including the girl's toothache and the presence of an older man, which helped investigators piece together a timeline.
What was the initial false identification of Valentine Sally?
Valentine Sally was mistakenly identified as Melody Cutlip, a missing girl from Florida, based on forensic odontologist findings. However, Melody later contacted her family, proving the identification wrong.
What is the current status of the investigation into Valentine Sally's murder?
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities still seeking information about the older man seen with her and the circumstances of her death. No arrests have been made.
What was Carolyn Eaton's background before her disappearance?
Carolyn Eaton was a 17-year-old from St. Louis, Missouri, who had a history of running away. She disappeared after an argument with her parents in December 1981 and was never seen again until her identification as Valentine Sally.
How did genetic genealogy contribute to solving the case?
Genetic genealogy allowed investigators to trace Valentine Sally's DNA to a family in St. Louis, Missouri, identifying her as Carolyn Eaton. This technique, also used to catch the Golden State Killer, proved instrumental in solving long-unsolved cases.
- Unidentified teenage girl found dead
- Valentine's Day 1982
- Limited clues at the scene
- Nickname 'Valentine Sally'