TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – Human remains found in a car pulled from the Wabash River are those of Scott Javins, an Indiana State University student who's been missing for more than five years, authorities said.
Officials going through silt and mud the car found a human skull and other remains. The remains are those of Javins, according to Vigo County Prosecutor Terry Modesitt.
Authorities are continuing the forensic analysis to look for more remains or potential evidence.
Javins, who was 20 when he disappeared, was last seen about 2:30 a.m. May 24, 2002 in Terre Haute leaving a friend's home in a silver Honda Civic. Police pulled Javins' car from the Wabash River Friday.
Police had checked other sections of the river in the past, but not the area where Javins' car was found, said Chief of Police George Ralston said Friday.
Modesitt said as the investigation continues, any evidence will be protected in case it is needed for a trial in the future.
"We feel good," Modesitt said. "We want to bring closure for the family and this is a start."
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