6-year-old abducted from California in 1951 found after 70-year search
A California family's seven-decade-long search for their abducted relative, Luis Armando Albino, concluded in June this year. The breakthrough came after an online DNA test led them to the opposite end of the country. Albino was kidnapped in 1951 at the age of six by a woman who lured him with promises of candy. Since then, some of his family members, including his mother, died, but the family never lost hope and kept his memory alive through photographs.
DNA test leads to breakthrough in decades-old case
Albino's niece, 63-year-old Alida Alequin, discovered her long-lost kinship after taking an online DNA test in 2020 "just for fun." The test revealed a 22% match with Albino, whom she initially couldn't contact. However, Alequin and her daughters resumed their search in early 2024, delving into microfilm archives of the Oakland Tribune at the Oakland Public Library. They found articles from 1951 detailing extensive search efforts to find Luis.
Family's relentless search leads to reopening of case
Armed with archival evidence, including a photograph of Luis and his older brother Roger, Alequin presented enough evidence to law enforcement to reopen the missing person case for her uncle. Oakland police acknowledged Alequin's crucial role in finding her uncle, stating that "the outcome of this story is what we strive for." A subsequent DNA test comparing Luis's with Alequin's mother solidified the match and confirmed that their long-lost relative had been found.
Emotional reunion after 70 years of separation
The Federal Bureau of Investigation facilitated a reunion between Luis and his family in California. Alequin recalled the emotional moment, stating that Luis "hugged me and said, 'Thank you for finding me' and gave me a kiss on the cheek." The following day, he visited his brother Roger in Stanislaus County, California. They shared a long hug and talked about their shared experiences, including the day of the kidnapping and their military service.
Kidnapping case remains open despite family reunion
That being said, the case into Albino's abduction still remains open. After being kidnapped, he was flown across the country and raised by a couple on the East Coast. The exact location remains undisclosed due to an ongoing investigation into his abduction. Alequin expressed hope that her story could inspire other families in similar situations, stating "I would say, don't give up." Albino is now a retired firefighter and Vietnam War veteran.
