A 16-year-old girl reported missing in Randolph County has been found dead, according to the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities identified the victim as Kayla Huff, who was last seen around 10:20 a.m. May 6. Her body was discovered by a civilian Randolph County resident at around 8 p.m. Wednesday night in a wooded area in Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area, where search efforts have been ongoing since last week.
"On behalf of the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, I want to extend our deepest condolences to Kayla’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time," said Andy Boggs, Randolph County sheriff. "This case has deeply impacted our community and the men and women involved in this investigation. While we are thankful for the tireless efforts of law enforcement, emergency responders, volunteers and community members who assisted in the search, we mourn alongside this family as they face an unimaginable loss."
The disappearance of Kayla Huff
Three people were charged Wednesday in connection with Huff’s disappearance, and a fourth person was charged Thursday.
Court documents allege that Alayna Mason and another individual kidnapped a person in Randolph County on May 6, the same day that Huff went missing. Authorities allege that Christopher Hull and Hunter Ames aided in the crime. All three are charged with first-degree kidnapping.
Julian Mason is charged with tampering with evidence in a felony prosecution.
Alayna Mason, Christopher Hull, Hunter Ames and Julian Mason
A 17-year-old was also arrested in connection to Huff's disappearance. The Randolph County Juvenile Office has declined to provide any information about the 17-year-old's case.
Officials have not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding Huff’s death. The investigation remains ongoing.
This is a breaking news story that will be updated as information becomes available.