Human remains confirmed to belong to Aniah Blanchard

The human remains found Monday in Macon County, Alabama are those of Aniah Blanchard, the missing stepdaughter of UFC fighter Walt Harris, authorities confirmed Wednesday.

"It is with (a) heavy heart that we so confirm today that the remains are, in fact, of Aniah Blanchard," Auburn police chief Paul Register said at a press conference (via ABC 3340). "We just received that confirmation. At this point, the case obviously will move forward as a homicide investigation. And as you would expect, additional charges will be forthcoming."

The 19-year-old was reported missing Oct. 24. Three men - Ibraheem Yazeed, Antwain Fisher, and David Johnson Jr. - have been arrested in connection to Blanchard's disappearance. Yazeed and Fisher have been charged with first-degree kidnapping, while Johnson has been charged with hindering prosecution.

Blanchard was last seen on video surveillance at an Auburn convenience store either late Oct. 23 or early Oct. 24.

UFC president Dana White released a statement about Blanchard's death on social media Wednesday.

"I’m devastated to hear this news," he wrote. "I’m heartbroken for Walt and his family. Thank you everyone for the support including the local and state Alabama law enforcement, media, athletes, managers, and fans. My condolences go out to everyone that was touched by Aniah’s story and tried to help bring her home."