Human remains recovered from a remote area of the Arizona mountain range have been identified as those of a teenager who went missing five months ago.
Peoria police confirmed the remains of 16-year-old Bradley Klose were found at the Deem Hills Recreation Area on Thursday.
Klose was last seen on April 8 in Peoria after he left his hangout and was seen on surveillance cameras leaving on foot.
Investigators said he was on the autism spectrum and his family was concerned for his safety as it was “not typical behaviour”.
In a statement to AZ FamilyHis family said: ‘This is a heartbreaking end to Bradley’s search.
Bradley Klose was last seen on April 8 in Peoria after he left his hangout and was seen on surveillance cameras leaving on foot.
Peoria police confirmed that Klose’s remains were found at the Deem Hills Recreation Area on Thursday.
‘Our family is in mourning and kindly requests privacy as we go through this difficult time.
‘Although this is not the outcome we hoped for, we praise God for answering our prayers and shedding light on Bradley.
‘We would like to thank all of our friends, neighbors, community and the Peoria Police Department for not giving up on the search.’
Police are investigating his death and are not seeking any suspects in connection with the incident.
Officials told the outlet that there does not appear to be any foul play or suspicious circumstances regarding his death.
A statement from authorities said: “Obviously, this is not the outcome everyone was hoping for and we would like to extend our condolences to Bradley’s family, who have since been notified of his passing.
“We would also like to thank the community for their concern and help.”
Police are investigating her death and are not seeking any suspects in connection with it.
Since the news of his death was announced, social media users have been leaving tributes to the teenager.
One person posted: “I hate this update. I was praying for a happy ending. He went to my kids school. Rest in peace Bradley. Please pray for his family.”
Another added: “I’m so sorry to hear this news. I’m sure it brings closure to the family’s story, but I can’t imagine what these people are going through.”
“As the father of a child with autism, this is my worst fear. Rest in peace Bradley and may the Klose family rest easier now. You will be in our family’s thoughts and prayers.”