Detective Superintendent Jim Kerr has confirmed the human remains found at a farm near Glasgow is that of missing student Karen Buckley.
Detective Superintendent Jim Kerr, the officer leading the investigation in to the death of Karen Buckley, made the announcement in a prepared statement regarding the enquiry at 4.15pm this afternoon.
In a statement read by Detective Superintendent Kerr, her father John said the family were “absolutely heartbroken” by the news that remains found on farmland outside the city are that of their only daughter.
After discovering the remains, police remained at the farm off the A809 Bearsden to Drymen road this morning, with several officers standing guard at the entrance to the site.
The area around eight miles from the Sanctuary was cordoned off at around 6pm yesterday.
Searches had previously focused on Dawsholm Park, where Miss Buckley’s handbag was found on Tuesday, and a property in the city’s Dorchester Avenue.
Police dogs, divers and a helicopter crew were all tasked in the hunt for the student.
She told friends at the nightspot on Dumbarton Road that she was going to the toilet at around 1am but failed to return and did not have her jacket with her.
People in Glasgow and beyond reacted on social media to the discovery of remains this morning.
Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland Martin McGuinness said: “Very sad news this morning that Scottish Police in their search for Cork student Karen Buckley have found a body. Heartbreakingly sad.”
Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said: “Terrible news from the Police regarding Karen Buckley. Thinking and praying for her family and loved ones this morning.”
Labour’s shadow Scottish secretary Margaret Curran said: “Awful news about Karen Buckley. My thoughts are with her family and friends.”