Police investigating the disappearance of a 13-year-old girl in western Victoria have discovered human remains believed to be those of the missing teenager. Layla Jeffery was last seen on McCracken Street in Donald on July 4 and was reported missing the following day, prompting a large-scale search involving specialist police units.
Human Remains Discovered
Victoria Police said human remains were found late on Thursday during searches in bushland off Byrne Street in Donald.
While formal identification has not yet been completed, investigators believe the remains are those of Layla Jeffery.
Authorities said the death is being treated as suspicious, with detectives from the Missing Persons Squad leading the investigation.
Major Search Operation
The search for Layla involved local police as well as members of the Dog Squad, AirWing, and Search and Rescue Squads, who spent several days combing nearby bushland.
As part of the ongoing investigation, detectives executed a search warrant at a property in Donald at about 11 a.m. on Friday.
Police have not released further details about the property or whether anyone has been taken into custody.
Appeal for Information
Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the teenager’s disappearance and death.
Victoria Police have urged anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact Crime Stoppers.
The investigation remains ongoing, and no charges have been announced.
Layla Jeffery, 13, was last seen in Donald on July 4.
