Human remains believed to be those of missing 13-year-old Layla Jade Jeffery have been discovered in Donald, Victoria, authorities reported Thursday. The discovery marks a tragic turn in the search for the teenager, who was last seen on July 4.
Detectives from Victoria Police's Missing Persons Squad are investigating the circumstances surrounding the remains, which were found in rural Victoria, approximately 280 kilometers northwest of Melbourne. Jeffery was reported missing on July 5, the day after she was last seen on McCracken Street in Donald.
A large-scale search involving local police, the Dog Squad, Air Wing, and the Search and Rescue Squad was conducted in bushland west of Byrne Street. This extensive operation led to the discovery of the remains late Thursday afternoon.
While formal identification is pending, investigators believe the remains are those of the missing girl. A warrant was executed at a residential property in Donald on Friday as part of the ongoing investigation. Police are currently treating the death as suspicious.
The community had actively participated in the search for Jeffery. Social media posts from locals expressed distress and hope for her safe return, with many urging anyone with information to come forward.
Police are scheduled to address the media on Friday afternoon. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online.