The body of a young girl found in a Rose Hill, Kansas backyard in early September has been identified.
The Wichita Eagle reported that on Friday, Rose Hill police chief Taylor Parlier identified the remains as Kennedy Jean Schroer through DNA evidence. Kennedy is believed to have died in late 2022 at the age of 6.
Kennedy, originally named Natalie Garcia by her biological mother, was adopted in November 2018 by Crystina and Joe Schroer.
“She was a beautiful child, with an infectious smile,” read a Friday news release from the Rose Hill Police Department.
As previously reported by CrimeOnline, Christa Helm said she lost custody of her three daughters five years ago after experiencing homelessness, drug use, and financial problems.
Police discovered the child’s remains while responding to a mental health crisis at a home. Rose Hill officers arrived at the residence on September 10 after receiving a report of a resident allegedly threatening self-harm, the department told People Magazine.
While at the home, officers were reportedly informed of a past homicide, according to a police statement.
The next day, police found the remains of a “youth.” The level of decomposition indicated the remains had likely been there for “several years,” Parlier said in the statement.
The Topeka Capital-Journal reported that the Sedgwick County Forensic Science Center has yet to release the full medical examiner report, but they did confirm Kennedy’s DNA.
“Due to the advanced level of decomposition, the medical examiner was unable to identify a cause of death,” police said. “The preliminary report found no visible injuries, nor any healing or healed injuries.”
No arrests have been made. Investigators want to ensure they gather all necessary information before charging the right individuals, which takes time.
“We understand the public might be confused about why no arrest has been made yet, and that is completely understandable,” police said. “What we want to convey is that we have one chance to gather as much information as possible, to find out what happened to this child and to tell her story.
“While we understand the desire to hold people accountable, we need to get this right, not fast. Releasing too much information could implicate someone not involved, so in our search for the truth, we also need to protect people’s rights. This investigation is ongoing.”
The Kansas Department for Children and Families is also conducting its own investigation to seek justice for Kennedy.
“DCF continues to work in support of law enforcement as they continue their investigation into Kennedy’s death. Just as law enforcement has asked, we too ask for the public’s patience as they work to find answers.”
A major concern is how Kennedy was missing for so long without anyone noticing.
According to The Wichita Eagle, Parlier was asked about Kennedy’s disappearance and said, “Accounting for the child is the primary focus of the investigation at this time, and therefore I cannot speak more to that question.”
Investigators are searching for answers about what happened, who is responsible, and why Kennedy’s absence wasn’t noticed sooner. Check back with CrimeOnline as the investigation continues.
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[Feature Photo: GoFubdMe]
