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Major search operation has ended in Tasmania for missing 14-year-old Shyanne-Lee

Tasmanian Police say human remains have been found in the long search for Shyanne-Lee Tatnell, 14, who was last seen in Launceston on April 30.

Missing person Shyanne-Lee seen on CCTV

Human remains have been found in the major police search for missing Tasmanian teenager Shyanne-Lee Tatnell.

The 14-year-old was last seen in Launceston about 8.30pm on April 30.

“It is with a heavy heart that I can confirm that remains were located late this afternoon during our extensive search. While these have not yet been forensically confirmed, they are believed to be human remains,” Northern District Commander Kate Chambers said.

“We have been in regular contact with Shyanne-Lee’s family throughout the investigative process, and have notified them about this latest development.

“Our thoughts continue to be with them and Shyanne-Lee’s loved ones during this difficult time.”

Commander Chambers said a crime scene had been declared at a property at Scottsdale as well as the scene near Nabowla, and extensive forensic examinations were being conducted.

“Police are following a specific line of inquiry, however no charges have been laid at this stage,” Commander Chambers said.

Shyanne-Lee hasn't been seen since April 30. Picture: Supplied
Shyanne-Lee hasn't been seen since April 30. Picture: Supplied

The remains were located on a bush track during an extensive ground and air search in bushland near Nabowla on Wednesday as part of the ongoing search for Shyanne-Lee.

An area of more than 50 square kilometres is being searched with a team of about 160 search and rescue personnel at the scene, as well as a specialist cadaver dog from NSW Police.

Commander Chambers said it was the largest search operation in northern Tasmania to date, with 20 trained search and rescue personnel, 20 SES volunteers, helicopters, horses, motorcycles, ATVs drones and more than 100 police recruits all searching.

“We would like to acknowledge our key partners – the Australian Federal Police who are assisting us with their ground penetrating radar capability and NSW Police for the use of their specialist cadaver dog and dog handler.”

Tasmania Police officers and SES have gathered for the search operation to locate Shyanne-Lee. Picture: Tasmania Police
Tasmania Police officers and SES have gathered for the search operation to locate Shyanne-Lee. Picture: Tasmania Police
The search is expected to be ongoing for several days. Picture: Tasmania Police
The search is expected to be ongoing for several days. Picture: Tasmania Police

Detective Acting Inspector Andrew Hanson said all the vehicles of interest previously the focus of investigation have been identified, with all drivers speaking to police.

“We’ve searched the North Esk River several times – using helicopters and ground search and rescue crews, with the help of volunteers on foot, horseback and ATVs,” he said.

“Our investigative team has spent considerable time scouring CCTV, interviewing witnesses, and meticulously following up every lead.

NSW Police is assisting Tasmania Police with the investigation. Picture: Tasmania Police
NSW Police is assisting Tasmania Police with the investigation. Picture: Tasmania Police
Over 100 police recruits and SES volunteers are out searching. Picture: Tasmania Police
Over 100 police recruits and SES volunteers are out searching. Picture: Tasmania Police

“The Tasmanian community has been fantastic and provided several important pieces of information to police. Each and every one has been thoroughly followed up,” he said.

“Our search efforts this week are as a result of our commitment to locate Shyanne-Lee and act on all information or leads. We are doing everything in our power to make that happen.”

About 100 members of family and friends held a vigil for Shyanne-Lee in Launceston’s City Park in June.

Anyone with information that would assist police to locate Shyanne-Lee or determine her movements is asked to contact police on 131 444 or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers Tasmania.

Original URL: https://www.news.com.au/national/major-search-operation-underway-in-tasmania-for-missing-14yearold-shyannelee/news-story/4688f4501949e726f71fc41d549ce73e