Auburn Police have confirmed human remains found in Alabama have been identified as Aniah Blanchard - stepdaughter of UFC heavyweight Walt Harris.
Blanchard went missing last month with foul play being suspected 48 hours later when the 19-year-old's car was found with evidence of 'life-threatening' amounts of blood.
Three arrests have been made in the last two weeks concerning the case, including 30-year-old Ibraheem Yazeed who eyewitnesses identified as the person who forced Blanchard into her vehicle outside a service station in Auburn on October 23.
Surveillance footage captured both Blanchard and Yazeed in the store at the same time, which led police to search for him. Yazeed was already out on bond for separate charges including kidnapping and attempted murder.
Harris, 36 had been scheduled for a December bout against veteran Dutch striker Alistair Overeem in Washington, but he dropped out of the fight to focus on his family in the continuing search for Blanchard.
Earlier this week, police announced that human remains had been found that they believed were Blanchard.
"I am heartbroken for the family of Aniah Blanchard," Alabama Governor Kay Ivey said in a statement.
"Like Alabamians across our state, I was praying for a much different outcome. I will be keeping them in my prayers and ask the people of Alabama to continue to do so as well.
"During this holiday season, it is easy to get distracted in the hustle and bustle, but I urge us all to remember those that are hurting. I appreciate the diligence of the Auburn Police Division, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and the many volunteers who were searching for Aniah.
"She is indeed loved and will be remembered by us all."
UFC president Dana White took to Instagram to express his sorrow over the loss of the daughter of one of his employees.
"I'm devastated to hear this news. I’m heartbroken for Walt and his family. Thank you everyone for the support including the local and state Alabama law enforcement, media, athletes, managers and fans. My condolences go out to everyone that was touched by Aniah’s story and tried to help bring her home."
