The remains of a teen, Brittanee Drexel, who disappeared 13 years ago have been found 

Heartbreakingly, thirteen years on from her disappearance, the remains of teenager Brittanee Drexel have been found. A convicted sex offender has also been charged with her rape and murder.

Brittanee was just 17-years-old when she went missing in 2009 from a popular spring break destination (Myrtle Beach) in South Carolina. Officials have now announced that Raymond Moody, 62, a convicted sex offender, has been arrested and charged with her kidnap, murder and rape, after her remains were found about an hour away from the vacation spot. The remains were identified via DNA testing and Brittanee's dental records.

Bravely speaking during a press conference, Brittanee's mother, Dawn Drexel, said: "This is truly a mother's worst nightmare. I am mourning my beautiful daughter Brittanee as I have for the past 13 years. Today marks the beginning of a new chapter. The search for Brittanee is now a pursuit of Brittanee's justice."

Brittanee, who was a New Yorker, was last spotted walking between hotels on 25 April 2009. The alarm was first raised by her boyfriend, who became concerned when she stopped responding to text messages.

Moody was first named as a person of interest in her disappearance back in 2012, but up until recently had never been charged.

Sheriff Carter Weaver, who is working on the case, said: "The why may never be known or understood. But today, this task force can confidently and without hesitation answer the rest of those questions along with the 'Who is responsible?'"

He also paid tribute to Brittanee's family: "To the Drexel family, we mourn with you and pray for you as you cope with the tragedy of 13 years ago."

Our thoughts are with all of Brittanee's loved ones during this very sad time.