“The Unsolved Murder of Tammy Terrell. Welcome to Daily Dose of Death, bringing you today’s Infamous Murder crime story.”
On the night of October 5, 1980, the body of a young woman is discovered in Henderson, Nevada, near the Arroyo Grande wash. The victim, later identified as 17-year-old Tammy Corrine Terrell from Roswell, New Mexico, shows signs of brutal violence, including blunt force trauma and multiple stab wounds. Investigators face a daunting task, with no initial leads on her identity or killer.
Years pass as investigators exhaust every avenue to identify the victim, known as “Arroyo Grande Jane Doe.” Her case becomes a catalyst for change, inspiring the creation of cold case units. Despite numerous exhumations and media coverage, her identity remains a mystery until December 2021, when forensic genealogy finally reveals her name.
The breakthrough comes when DNA samples from Terrell’s sisters confirm her identity. Last seen at the Roswell State Fair on September 28, 1980, Tammy’s case remains open, with investigators determined to uncover the truth behind her tragic end.
