NOTICE: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are cautioned that this article contains the name and image of a deceased individual.

The tragic search for missing Northern Territory girl Sharon Granites has come to a sorrowful end, as authorities have confirmed her death days after she vanished from Alice Springs.

Earlier today, Northern Territory police discovered the body of a young girl, believed to be the five-year-old who had been reported missing.

The discovery was made approximately five kilometers south of the original crime scene.

“This is an incredibly distressing development,” stated Northern Territory Police Force Commissioner Martin Dole.

“Sharon’s family has been formally informed, and our thoughts are with them during this devastating time.”

“I want to be clear from the outset, we are not in a position today to provide answers around the cause of Sharon’s death or how long she may have been deceased.

“A post-mortem examination will be conducted, likely tomorrow, and that will be a critical step in establishing those facts.

“The criminal investigation is ongoing and a coronial inquest will now also begin.

“As a result, there will now be limitations on what we can say publicly.

“Finally, this is devastating news, not only for Sharon’s family, but also first responders, the Alice Springs community and all of those around Australia who have been worrying for Sharon.

“The support shown during the time has been overwhelming.”