DAVENPORT, Iowa — Davenport police confirmed the human remains found north of DeWitt, Iowa last week are those of Breasia Terrell, a then 10-year-old Davenport girl who went missing in July 2020.
Davenport Police Chief Paul Sikorski said in a press conference Wednesday, March 31 an autopsy confirmed human remains found in Clinton County were those of Breasia Terrell.
Two fishermen found the remains north of DeWitt along 270th Street on Monday, March 22. Details on the remains such as age, gender and race were not immediately clear when they were found.
Sikorski said the investigation into Breasia's disappearance has been conducted as a homicide for the past nine months and that there is no timeline for possible charges.
"It's tragic. This news is heartbreaking to both Breasia's family and our Davenport community," Sikorski said. "We know our community is anxious for information regarding the investigation and any charges that may be forthcoming."
"Words cannot describe the heartache and emptiness that we feel now that police have confirmed the remains located in DeWitt, Iowa are Breasia," Aisha Lankford, Breasia's mother said.
"Our love from Breasia has gotten us through the past nine months and will continue to see us through as we fight for justice. We want to thank the community, law enforcement, friends and family who have put in countless hours to help bring Bree home. We ask for privacy as we grieve the loss of our daughter, sister and friend. Our focus will now be on seeking answers to what happened on the night she was last seen."
Henry Dinkins, the father of Breaisa's half-brother, was named a person of interest in the case and remains incarcerated on unrelated charges, Sikorski said.
Nicole Cisne Durbin, President and CEO of Family Resources, highlighted a toll-free 24/7 crisis hotline at 866-921-3354 for those who need help coping with loss. Family Resources is an organization that helps those affected by violent crime.
"The loss of Breasia will create a ripple effect of trauma throughout our entire community," Durbin said during the press conference. "Our entire community will feel this tragic loss. We want our community to know you don't have to deal with this loss alone."
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