Police have discovered the body of 13-year-old Layla Jeffery in bushland in regional Victoria, following an extensive search. The death is being treated as suspicious, authorities confirmed on Friday.
Remains Found in Donald
The remains were found late Thursday afternoon in Donald, a small town in western Victoria. A large-scale search had been conducted in bushland west of Byrne Street after Layla was reported missing on 5 July. She was last seen on McCracken Street in Donald the previous day and had not been heard from since.
Police Investigation Underway
Local police, along with specialist officers from the dog squad, air wing, and search and rescue squad, participated in the search. "While the remains are yet to be formally identified, they are believed to be those of the missing girl," police said in a statement on Friday.
A warrant was executed at a residential property in Donald shortly after 11am on Friday as part of the investigation. "The investigation into the circumstances around the death of the girl remains ongoing; however, police are currently treating it as suspicious," a police spokesperson said.
Community Impact
The discovery has shocked the small community of Donald. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information to come forward as the investigation progresses.
