U.S.

Virginia Police: Graham Case Now A 'Death Investigation'

Authorities searching for missing University of Virginia student Hannah Graham have uncovered unidentified human remains.

Virginia Police: Graham Case Now A 'Death Investigation'
City of Charlottesville
SMS

Virginia police said Saturday they had uncovered human remains while investigating the disappearance of University of Virginia student Hannah Graham.

CHARLOTTESVILLE POLICE CHIEF TIMOTHY LONGO VIA CNN"Fairly shortly after that discovery, at the time that was most appropriate, Det. Sgt. James Mooney of the Charlottesville police department made a very difficult phone call, and reached out to John and Susan Graham."

ALBERMARLE COUNTY POLICE CHIEF STEVE SELLERS VIA WSET"I ask for the public's patience as we move forward and pursue what is now a new, ongoing, death investigation."

Local police found the remains while searching an abandoned property in Albemarle County. The remains won't be formally identified until an autopsy is carried out, and authorities are urging people to avoid jumping to conclusions. 

Graham went missing in Charlottesville on Sept. 13. After her disappearance went public, thousands of volunteers joined state and local officials in a massive search of the area to look for her.

Authorities eventually arrested 32-year-old Jesse Matthew, who was seen walking near Graham on CCTV footage the night she went missing. After his arrest, police said Matthew was also linked to another unsolved abduction case in 2009.  (Video via City of Charlottesville)

Matthew is currently charged with abduction with intent to defile. He's next due in court Dec. 4.