Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Buffalo Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia announced on Monday a grim conclusion in the search for Jaylen Griffin, a missing child who was last seen in August 2020.
After an extensive search for Griffin spanning more than three years, the search came to an unfortunate end on Friday when the remains of Griffin's body was found in an occupied structure in the 100 block of Sheffield Avenue.
According to Gramaglia, the remains were discovered by an individual who had the right to be in the home on Sheffield Avenue. That individual immediately reported the discovery to Buffalo Police a little after 10 a.m. ET on Friday.
Gramaglia says the body had been found after being deceased for a "considerable amount of time."
Through the use of dental records, the medical examiner's office was able to identify Griffin as the deceased body, on top of confirming that his death was a result of a homicide. His remains were identified one week before, what would have been, his 16th birthday.
"First-and-foremost, I do want to extend my sincere sympathies to the family of Jaylen. This department has conducted extensive searches, and I want Jaylen's family to know we are working diligently, we will continue to work diligently to bring the next closure for the family," said Gramaglia on Monday during a press briefing at Buffalo Police headquarters downtown. "The first closure was finding Jaylen and bringing them home. Now we are going to conduct another round of investigations with our homicide squad, continuing work with the Special Victims Unit so that we can bring a next level of closure."
Acting Erie County District Attorney Michael Keane says a homicide investigation will now commence between his office and Buffalo Police.
"This is a tragedy, and it's a terrible way to bring this search to a conclusion," said Keane during Monday's press briefing. "The medical examiner will do a thorough and complete investigation, which will include an autopsy. That could take months, we expect it's going to take months. That's going to hopefully reveal to us some forensic evidence that is going to be significant in the investigation. That's where the investigation is going to go from here."
Gramaglia also hopes with Griffin's body now found, more people will be willing to come forward in order to assist in the homicide investigation.
Buffalo Common Council President Chris Scanlon released the following statement on Monday's conclusion of Griffin's disappearance:
"My heart aches to learn of the tragic conclusion to Jaylen Griffin's disappearance. Three-and-a-half years of uncertainty and hope have now given way to profound sorrow as we mourn the loss of a young life gone too soon. Our deepest condolences go out to Jaylen's family and loved ones, who have endured unimaginable pain."
Kareema Morris from Bury The Violence says a candle light vigil will be held next Monday, what would've been Griffin's 16th birthday, at Paderewski Circle located just outside Buffalo Central Terminal in East Buffalo at 6 p.m. ET.
