ANETH, Utah, April 4, 2019 (Gephardt Daily) — Law enforcement officers in Southern Utah believe they have found the body of a missing 4-year-old child.
A statement posted on social media by the Navajo Division of Public Safety said Anndine Jones’ body was discovered Wednesday night in McElmo Creek, just north of the town of Aneth in San Juan County.
She had been missing since wandering away from her family’s home March 14.
“This has been a difficult time for everyone involved,” said Navajo Police Chief Phillip Francisco. “At this time, we ask for the public’s patience and understanding. Details will be limited in the forthcoming days as the investigation continues.
“As protocol, the Navajo Division of Public Safety is investigating with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. We ask that the public continue to keep the family in their thoughts and prayers as they navigate through this difficult time.”
The child has been tentatively identified by her parents, according investigators. Positive identification is expected to be confirmed by the Office of the State Medical Examiner.
Hundreds of volunteers joined law enforcement in search efforts over the last few weeks, efforts that were often hampered by dangerous winter weather conditions.
This investigation is being conducted by the Navajo Division of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Gephardt Daily will update the story as more information becomes available.
