The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office in Florida found human remains Wednesday afternoon believed to be an Ormand Beach girl who vanished nearly 20 years ago.
According to the sheriff’s office, police say the remains are likely of Autumn McClure, 16, who was last seen with her boyfriend on May 10, 2004, after he dropped her off at the Volusia County Mall.
Since her disappearance, investigators have interviewed numerous family members and potential witnesses. In 2021, they identified a person of interest in the case, who passed away in 2022, The Daytona Beach News-Journal reports.
On Wednesday, human remains were found during the excavation of a suspected burial site in the Ormond Beach area.
COLD CASE UPDATE: Volusia sheriff’s detectives investigating the disappearance of a 16-year-old Ormond Beach girl almost 20 years ago discovered human remains this afternoon during the excavation of a suspected burial site. pic.twitter.com/bB9IWEuiua
— Volusia Sheriff (@VolusiaSheriff) February 28, 2024
“Not the result anyone hoped for in 2004 or ever since, but I am very proud of the work that went into this discovery 20 years later,” Sheriff Mike Chitwood said.
“At the very least we can say we never gave up on Autumn McClure’s case. Prayers and condolences to the family tonight.”
According to FOX 35, McClure was a student at Mainland High School when she disappeared.
The story is developing. Check back for updates.
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[Feature Photo: Autumn McClure/Volusia County Sheriff’s Office]