Police say they have identified human remains found in scrub near Bundaberg as missing teenagerPheobe Bishop.
Bishop’s housemates – James Wood, 34, and Tanika Bromley, 33 – were arrested on 5 June and charged with her murder. They have not entered pleas and are on remand awaiting trial.
The following day, police discovered remains during a search of an area near Good Night Scrub national park, close to Gin Gin. On Tuesday, police said they had identified the remains.
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“Police have confirmed human remains located at an area near Good Night Scrub national park are that of missing teenager Pheobe Bishop,” theQueenslandPolice Service said in a statement.
“Investigations into locating more items of interest in relation to this matter remain ongoing.”
It is understood police continue to search for Bishop’s luggage.
Police have also renewed an appeal for any information in relation to Bishop, or the movement of a grey Hyundai iX35 between 15 and 18 May in the greater Gin Gin area.
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The mayor of the Bundaberg region, Helen Blackburn, said in a statement the confirmation that remains belonged to Bishop brought “great sadness” to the community.
“This is the heartbreaking outcome none of us wanted,” Blackburn said.
“Our community came together in hope – searching, sharing, and praying for Pheobe’s safe return.
“To Pheobe’s family and friends, I offer my deepest condolences on behalf of the Bundaberg region community. We are holding you in our hearts during this incredibly difficult time.”
The Bundaberg magistrates court has heard that Wood and Bromley allegedly murdered the missing teenager before moving her body from a national park.
They have been charged with murder and two counts each of interfering with a corpse. They will appear in court again on 11 August.