Human remains found in a remote Arizona mountain area 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 Thursday at Deem Hills Recreation Area.
Klose was last seen on April 8 in Peoria after leaving his walking path. He was last seen on surveillance cameras leaving on foot.
According to researchers, he had autism and his family was concerned for his safety because this was “not normal behavior.”
In a statement to AZFamily, his family said: “This is a heartbreaking end to the search for Bradley.’
Bradley Klose was last seen on April 8 in Peoria after leaving his walking trail and was last spotted on surveillance cameras leaving on foot
Peoria police confirmed that Klose’s remains were found Thursday at the Deem Hills Recreation Area
Our family is grieving and kindly asks for privacy as we go through this difficult time.
Although this is not the outcome we were hoping for, we praise God for answering our prayers and shining a light on Bradley.
“We want to thank all of our friends, neighbors, community and the Peoria Police Department for not giving up the search.”
Police are investigating his death and no suspects are currently being sought.
Officials told the outlet that there does not appear to be any foul play or suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.
A statement from the authorities said: ‘This is clearly not the outcome that anyone had hoped for and we would like to extend our condolences to Bradley’s family, who have now been informed of his passing.
“We would also like to thank the community for their concern and assistance.”
Police are investigating his death, but no suspects are being sought in connection with this.
After news of his passing broke, users on social media left tributes for the teenager.
One person posted: ‘I hate this update. I was praying for a happy ending. He went to my child’s school. RIP Bradley, prayers to his family.’
Another added: ‘I’m so sorry to hear this news, I’m sure it gives the family some peace but I can’t imagine what these people are going through.
“As a father of a child with autism, this is my greatest fear. Rest in peace Bradley, and may the Klose family rest easy now. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.”