Boy, 16, charged with murder after police discover body of 13-year-old Layla Jeffery in Victorian bushland
News Source
β’Sat, 11 Jul 2026 09:09:07 GMT
π° What Happened
A 16-year-old boy has been charged with murder after police found the body of 13-year-old Layla Jeffery in bushland near Donald, a small town in regional Victoria. Police discovered her remains late on Thursday afternoon following a large-scale search. The teenager was reported missing on July 5 and was last seen on McCracken Street in Donald the day before. Officers from the dog squad, air wing, and search and rescue squad all helped find her.
π The Backstory
Detectives from Victoria's missing persons squad arrested the teenage boy at a home in Donald on Friday morning. Police said the boy was known to both Layla and to police. Two other women, aged 53 from Donald and 55 from Melbourne, were also helping police with their inquiries. The case has shocked the small rural community of Donald, where everyone knows each other. Detective Inspector Dave Dunstan said the arrest came after a detailed investigation.
π― Why It Matters
This tragedy highlights the dangers young people can face, even in small country towns. It reminds families and communities to stay alert and watch out for each other's children.
A 16-year-old boy has been charged with murder after police found the body of 13-year-old Layla Jeffery in bushland near Donald, a small town in regional Victoria. Police discovered her remains late on Thursday afternoon following a large-scale search. The teenager was reported missing on July 5 and was last seen on McCracken Street in Donald the day before. Officers from the dog squad, air wing, and search and rescue squad all helped find her.
Detectives from Victoria's missing persons squad arrested the teenage boy at a home in Donald on Friday morning. Police said the boy was known to both Layla and to police. Two other women, aged 53 from Donald and 55 from Melbourne, were also helping police with their inquiries. The case has shocked the small rural community of Donald, where everyone knows each other. Detective Inspector Dave Dunstan said the arrest came after a detailed investigation.
This tragedy highlights the dangers young people can face, even in small country towns. It reminds families and communities to stay alert and watch out for each other's children.