Human remains discovered at Machans Beach

Late this afternoon Police located remains, believed to be human, in a swamp area during searches near Machans Beach.

The area around the discovery is currently a crime scene and a further search is underway for evidence which may assist with the identification of the remains.

At this time investigations are continuing, and Police have be unable to confirm if there is a connection between the disappearance of 13-year-old Declan Crouch, who went missing on Wednesday 9th March, after returning home from school at Machans Beach. Declan turned 14 on April 5th.

There have been no leads in his sudden disappearance after numerous searches of surrounding properties and around local creeks and rivers around Machans, including the Barron River. both areas are known to have a crocodile population on the fringes of the Cairns Airport.

Family of Declan Couch believed had run away.