I don't know the particulars of this specific case, but when there are matches that were made this close to home, it's usually just bad luck or poor conduct that leads to it going unsolved for so long.
I spoke at length with the San Bernadino Coroner Investigator this afternoon, he has a private citizen researcher who works with him, and she also had made the connection. He is a truly dedicated man, who cares deeply for the unidentifed. He works tirelessly- to bring all the lost, back home. Say a prayer for Dawn and her family tonight. May her spirit be set free and may justice be served.
Each day when the early morning light begins to shine on the horizon, the rise of the morning sun will always have her name- Dawn.
Well to be fair they haven't taken the site down because DNA hasn't confirmed it yet.
It may be hinky but I think it's fair to say that Snufamonbobball did a great job quickly and with less resources than someone with the full backing of LE and a head start with the information. For that she deserves praise - but we also should be thankful that at least some law enforcement has the decency to take this family and this victim seriously and provide even volunteer resources rather than hiding behind inhumane and impersonal policy.