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Murder charge after missing Alaska teen believed found dead

ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- A 16-year-old is facing first-degree murder and kidnapping charges after authorities found a body they suspect is an Alaska teenager who had been missing for nearly three weeks.

KTUU-TV reports that remains found Friday near Palmer were sent to the medical examiner for identification and to determine the cause of death.

The body is believed to be that of 16-year-old David Grunwald. The teen was first reported missing late Nov. 13, when he didn’t come home after dropping his girlfriend off at her home, reports CBS affiliate KTVA. His truck was found abandoned and burned the next day on a remote road in Wasilla.

Alaska state troopers say the suspect is being charged as an adult. Other suspects in the killing have been identified and were also expected to be charged, troopers said.

Troopers are asking residents and business owners in the Palmer and Wasilla area to check any surveillance camera video they have from 6 p.m. Nov. 13 through Nov. 14 at 11 a.m. for footage of Grunwald or his Ford Bronco with the license plate JFM910.

A vigil was held for Grunwald on Saturday in Palmer.

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