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In a piece of news that has spread grief all over the MMA community, the search for UFC heavyweight Walt Harris' missing stepdaughter Aniah Blanchard has finally come to an end as the human remains found by police authorities in Macon County, Alabama have been confirmed as the 19-year-old Aniah.
In an announcement made on Wednesday, Auburn Police stated that the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences has identified the body as that of Blanchard.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce that the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences has positively identified the remains as those of Aniah Haley Blanchard. At this point, the case will move forward as a homicide investigation, and additional charges are forthcoming.”
Blanchard went missing on 23rd October and three arrests have already been made in connection to the disappearance. Ibraheem Yazeed has been charged with first-degree kidnapping because an eye-witness testified saying he saw Yazeed force Blanchard inside her Honda CR-V against her will.
Aniah's stepfather Harris took to Instagram to share a very emotional message.
Alabama Governor, Kay Ivey too expressed his grief over Aniah's death in a statement released earlier.
“I am heartbroken for the family of Aniah Blanchard. Like Alabamians across our state, I was praying for a much different outcome. I will be keeping them in my prayers and ask the people of Alabama to continue to do so as well."
“During this holiday season, it is easy to get distracted in the hustle and bustle, but I urge us all to remember those that are hurting. I appreciate the diligence of the Auburn Police Division, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and the many volunteers who were searching for Aniah. She is indeed loved and will be remembered by us all.”
We at Sportskeeda extend our deepest condolences to Walt Harris and his family in this time of grief.
