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Metropolitan Police
# Murder Inquiry
Murder inquiry launched after body found in search for missing teen Alice Gross
The 14 year old was reported missing more than a month ago.
Last updated 10am
POLICE SEARCHING FOR missing teenager Alice Gross have found a body in the River Brent in west London.
Scotland Yard confirmed the discovery this morning, adding that the 14 year old’s family had been informed.
Police said there had been “significant efforts made to conceal the body” but would not speculate any further about what had happened to her.
Alice Gross was reported missing after failing to return home on 28 August. CCTV footage shows her walking along the towpath of the Grand Union Canal on that day at 4.26pm.
Commander Graham McNulty, who is leading the operation, said formal identification had not been completed but that “clearly this news is devastating for everyone involved in the search for Alice”.
“At this time my thoughts are with Alice’s family and friends. I would ask you to respect their privacy and allow them space,” he continued in a statement.
“This is now a murder investigation and I need the public’s help to find whoever is responsible.”
McNulty thanked the local community for getting involved in the search, noting that Alice’s disappearance has affected the whole community.
A fresh appeal for Arnis Zalkalns, 41, was made as he is still a suspect in the investigation.
A construction worker in the capital, the Latvian has a previous murder conviction and was seen cycling along the same route behind Alice. He has since been reported missing.
First published 7am
Read: Police reconstruct last known hours of missing Alice Gross (14)
More: Police can’t arrest Alice Gross suspect if he’s found abroad
Related: Missing London teen: Police search canal as suspect’s violent past emerges
