Humans remains believed to be those of teenager Leah Croucher were found on Wednesday, October 12, 2022, in a house approximately half a mile from her family home.
A hunt was launched for 19-year-old Leah after she disappeared without trace three and a half years ago on February 15, 2019.
Officers carried out door-to-door inquiries, including in Loxbeare Drive, Furzton, Milton Keynes, where the remains were found.
A poster appealing for information about Leah was on a tree 20 metres from the house.
Following a tip off on Monday the police went to the detached 4-bedroomed house and launched a full-scale search.
The home, which is believed to have been unoccupied , was cordoned off, along with two other properties. Officers said they expect to be there for several days. A source said they did not believe anybody had been arrested.
Leah was last seen at her home in Quantock Crescent, Emerson Valley in the city at 10pm on Valentine’s Day night 2019.
She had left home that morning for work at a direct debit collection agency in the city, but did not arrive. Her parents Claire and John reported her missing that evening.
There was a reported sighting of 5 foot 2 inch Leah in Buzzacott Lane in Furzton in the city just after 8.15am on the Friday. She was walking in the direction of Loxbeare Drive and Chaffron Way.
Witnesses also saw a distressed female walking near Furzton Lake, close to the house where the remains were found. The police had previously searched the lake in an attempt to find her.
Leah had been having an affair with an engaged man. He had an arranged marriage and was not a suspect in the case.
On Wednesday, October 12, Thames Valley Police said: “During our forensic examinations at the scene in Loxbeare Drive, Milton Keynes, we have identified human remains.
“The forensic examination continues and will do for some time.
“It is likely to take some time to formally identify the deceased. “Leah’s family continue to be kept informed and updated. We ask the media to respect their privacy at this very difficult time.”
Leah’s family have campaigned to find her. Posters and banners appeared in the city and there had been a social media campaign.
Her disappearance has also featured on TV’s Crimewatch.
In March this year a £20,000 reward for information was put up by the local community.
Leah’s half brother Hayden, 24, took his own life in November 2019.
He had suffered mental health problems, worsened by Leah’s disappearance.
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