A body found in Kent woodland is that of Sarah Everard, Scotland Yard has confirmed.
The sad news was confirmed this afternoon.
It comes after her family had paid tribute to her as a "shining example to us all", describing her as a daughter and sister who "brought so much joy to our lives".
In a statement released on their behalf by the Metropolitan Police, the 33-year-old marketing executive's family appealed for information to help the force's investigation after human remains were found on Wednesday.
The remains have now been formally identified and Sarah's family have been informed.
A Met Office spokesman said on Twitter: "Assistant Commissioner Nick Ephgrave has sadly confirmed the body found in the woodland in Kent has been identified as Sarah Everard. Our thoughts are with Sarah's family and loved ones at this difficult time."
And Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Nick Ephgrave added: "Specialist officers remain in constant contact with Sarah's family, and will continue to support them throughout the investigation and beyond.
"That investigation continues at a pace and we have hundreds of officers working round the clock to establish the full circumstances of Sarah's disappearance, and her murder."
He added that Sarah Everard's family had been told this "most distressing news".
In the tribute Sarah's family had said: "Our beautiful daughter Sarah was taken from us and we are appealing for any information that will help to solve this terrible crime.
"Sarah was bright and beautiful - a wonderful daughter and sister. She was kind and thoughtful, caring and dependable. She always put others first and had the most amazing sense of humour.
"She was strong and principled and a shining example to us all. We are very proud of her and she brought so much joy to our lives.
"We would like to thank our friends and family for all their support during this awful time and we would especially like to thank Sarah's friends who are working tirelessly to help.
"We are so grateful to the police and would like to thank them for all they are doing. We are now pleading for additional help from the public.
"Please come forward and speak to the police if you have any information. No piece of information is too insignificant. Thank you."
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The statement comes after the Metropolitan Police office suspected of kidnapping and murdering Ms Everard was taken to hospital for a head injury sustained while in custody.
Scotland Yard said the suspect, who is in his 40s, was treated, discharged and returned to the police station where he is being held.
Today Assistant Commissioner Nick Ephgrave confirmed the officer remains in custody.
