The body of missing student Megan Roberts was found in the River Ouse on Sunday, police confirmed today.
Formal identification was carried out this afternoon after a member of the public found a body about 100 metres upstream at the Acaster Malbis on Sunday at 3.25pm.
North Yorkshire Police said the body was of missing 20-year-old fine arts York St John undergraduate Megan Roberts.
Superintendent Phil Cain, Safer Neighbourhood Commander for York, said: “Our thoughts and sympathies are with Megan’s family at this extremely difficult and very sad time.
“Her family are receiving support from specially trained officers as they come to terms with what has happened.
“This tragedy has touched many people including Megan’s friends, fellow students at York St John University and the people of York and we extend our sympathies to them at this time.
“I hope that a small measure of comfort can be taken from the fact that Megan has now been found, albeit in the most tragic of circumstances, putting an end to the uncertainty about where she is and allowing her family and friends to grieve properly for her.
“I would like to thank the Missing People charity for their invaluable help and support during the investigation, and to members of the public and the residents of York who have phoned into the enquiry with information, their support is greatly appreciated.”
Megan was last seen after a night out in York city centre on Thursday 23 January.
She was witnessed leaving Popworld at around 2am before last being seen on Lendal Bridge.
An extensive search involving underwater divers resulted after fears that Megan had fallen into the River Ouse during the early hours.
Megan’s mother Jackie Roberts said: “We would like to thank the police, fire service, and the public that have been involved in the search for Megan. We would also like to thank everyone who has offered support and comfort during this painful time.
“Megan was an intelligent, talented and beautiful person whose kindness and sense of humour will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved her.”
Megan’s father Jason Roberts said: “We would like to thank the police, fire service and the public who have been involved in the search for Megan.
“Megan was a wonderful, kind and loving daughter who will be missed by many.”
Students who are affected can contact the York Nightline, who are open from 8pm-8am. You can phone, email or IM through their website or by visiting the Eric Milner White Court. You can call 01904323735 or email [email protected].