Summary
In May 2009, the remains of an unidentified baby were found in a dumpster behind an apartment building in the 1500 block of Decoto Road in Union City, California, an Alameda County city in the San Francisco Bay Area. The newborn Baby Jane Doe was named Matea Esperanza by UCPD officers—a name meaning “Gift from God” in Hebrew and “Hope” in Spanish—was discovered by a man searching for recyclables. An autopsy revealed that the baby died due to drowning and the investigation revealed that the baby had been in the dumpster for 24 hours or less. The discovery led to an extensive and challenging investigation that remained open and active for more than a decade.
In 2023, the Union City Police Department and Alameda County District Attorney's Office partnered with Othram in The Woodlands, Texas in hopes that advanced DNA testing could help identify the infant. Forensic evidence was sent to Othram's laboratory where scientists produced a suitable DNA extract from the remains. A comprehensive DNA profile was then developed for the newborn using Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing®. Othram's forensic genetic genealogy team then conducted a genealogical search that resulted in new leads, which were provided to law enforcement.
This work ultimately led investigators to identify the infant's biological parents. Further DNA comparison confirmed the identity of the infant's mother as being 46-year-old Angela Onduto of Denver, Colorado. In May 2025, around what would have been Matea’s 16th birthday, detectives traveled to Denver to coordinate with local law enforcement and Onduto was arrested. Following weeks of continued investigative work, the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office filed a charge of murder under California Penal Code 187 against Onduto. She was taken into custody by the Denver Police Department late on July 2, 2025. Union City detectives are now working to extradite her to Alameda County, where court proceedings will move forward.
The Union City Police Department issued a news release expressing deep gratitude that justice is progressing in Matea’s case after 16 years, reaffirming the department’s commitment to solving cold cases and bringing closure to the community. Matea’s memory continues to resonate in Union City. In 2017, the Union City Police Officers Association purchased a permanent grave marker in her honor, and a memorial service is held annually by members of the department.
The investigation remains active. Detectives continue to follow up on additional leads and potential witnesses. Anyone with additional information is urged to contact: Cold Case Detective Ayala at (510) 675-5259 or call the Anonymous tip line: (510) 675-5207.
The identification of the child's mother represents the 65th publicly announced case in the State of California. To see more cases in California, check DNASolves.
Dan Miller
Director of Customer Service
Dan guides law enforcement agencies across the United States and internationally through every step of the forensic process—from crime scene to courtroom. He ensures investigators have the support and resources they need to navigate advanced DNA testing and maximize the impact of forensic evidence in their cases.