Positive Identification On Boy's Remains Still Pending

According to a sergeant at the Riverside County Coroner’s Office, it may take several days before the positive identification is made.

Meanwhile, police suspect the human remains are those of Terry Smith, the 11-year-old boy who was reported missing July 7. The remains were discovered in a shallow grave in the backyard of Terry’s home in the 33000 block of Helen Lane.

Police have made an arrest in the case, a 16-year-old relative of the boy. According to Menifee Police Chief John Hill, the teen is being held on suspicion of murder.

Police had earlier confirmed that a 16-year-old half-brother of Terry’s resided at the home, along with their mother, Shawna Smith, and a female juvenile. Additionally, neighbors say a female partner of Shawna’s also lived at the residence situated on about an acre of property in a semi-rural neighborhood.

A Riverside County sheriff’s sergeant explained the arrest.

“During the investigation, occupants of the residence were transported to the Riverside Sheriff's Perris Station and were interviewed,” Sgt. Lisa McConnell said in a released statement. “As a result of those interviews a 16-year-old family member was arrested for homicide. The identity of the suspect is being withheld because he is a juvenile.”

There have been no reports of additional arrests in the case.

John Hall, spokesman for the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, confirmed Thursday afternoon that no charges have yet been filed in the case and said he does not expect to have any updates on the case today.

More Coverage on the Terry Smith Story:

• Have You Seen This Boy? He is at Risk
• Hundreds of Volunteers Fan Out in Search for Missing Autistic Boy in Menifee
• Volunteers, Authorities Searching Through the Night for Missing Menifee Boy
• VIDEO: No Leads In Case Of Missing Autistic Boy, Police Chief Says
• UPDATED: 16-Year-Old Family Member of Missing Boy Arrested on Suspicion of Murder
• Teen Suspected of Killing His Little Brother
• Volunteer: No Regrets in Massive Search Effort for Terry Smith
• Crowd Releases Balloons In Memory Of Terry 'JuJu' Smith
• Community Mourns Menifee Boy With Vigil After Human Remains Discovered
• KTLA: Woman’s ‘Intuition’ Helps Find Missing Boy’s Body