PORTLAND, Jamaica — A body in an advanced state of decomposition, believed to be that of missing 12-year-old Christal McLean, was discovered in the Rio Grande at Grants Level in Portland on Wednesday.

McLean, a resident of Berrydale in Portland, had been reported missing since Friday, June 12. According to police, a high alert was issued on Monday after extensive efforts to locate the child were unsuccessful.

Investigators reported that McLean was last seen at her home around 7:00 am before she was reported missing.

The gruesome discovery was made shortly after midday on Wednesday when individuals rafting on the Rio Grande stumbled upon the body and alerted the police. Lawmen said the remains were in an advanced stage of decomposition.

Residents at the scene said the body’s head was submerged in the water. They also reported seeing a bag nearby containing clothing believed to belong to McLean, along with school books.

McLean attended Boundbrook Primary School and was presently attending Port Antonio High School in Portland.

The Portland police are awaiting the results of an autopsy to determine the cause of death and to confirm the identity of the deceased.

— Everard Owen