Aniah Blanchard, who had been missing since October 23, was confirmed dead after her remains were found in Alabama, according to al.com. The 19-year-old was the stepdaughter of UFC heavyweight Walt Harris.
On Thanksgiving Day, Harris took to social media to share a heartbreaking letter to his daughter.
“My sweet baby girl… I just wanna thank you for helping me change my life for the better… For teaching me how to be a man and a better father! For being my biggest fan win, lose, or draw! For always knowing what to say to put a smile on my face and lift me up when I was down and wanted to give up. You light up my world I’m so many ways,” Harris wrote on Instagram.
“This pain is unbearable… I know you want me to be strong but it so hard baby it so hard. I’m gonna find a way I promise you I will. Right now nothing makes sense and I’m so lost. I just want you back. I hope I made you proud… I’m gonna keep going daddy just needs time. I love you so much. Look after us like you always did. We need you now more than ever. My ‘lil mighty mighty tiger is an angel now. I love you baby girl forever and ever!”
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Ibraheem Yazeed, the suspect in the Aniah Blanchard kidnapping case, was arrested late Thursday night in Pensacola, Florida after a brief on-foot pursuit, according to al.com. Yazeed was charged with first-degree kidnapping. Blanchard was last seen on October 23.
Yazeed was awaiting trial for kidnapping, robbery and attempted murder in a previous incident.
Blanchard is a student at Southern Union State Community College.
She was last seen at the same location as Yazeed and it is believed that she may have been kidnapped during a carjacking. The Auburn Police Department arrested three individuals in relation to the disappearance and murder of Blanchard.
Yazeed and Antwain Shamar Fisher, 35, have been charged with first-degree kidnapping. David Lee Johnson Sr., 63, is charged with hindering prosecution.
Our deepest condolences go out to Blanchard’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult and tragic time.
