LAKEWOOD, Wash. -- Police said skeletal remains found Tuesday in Lakewood are those of Adre'anna Jackson, the 10-year-old girl who disappeared last December.

Video: Lakewood Police News Conference

At a news conference, Lakewood Police Chief Larry Saunders said the remains were positively identified Wednesday and the parents of the girl have been notified.

"The death of a child is a tragedy for the entire community," Saunders said. "We are deeply committed to turning over every stone, initiating every effort to restore justice in this situation and bring closure to the family and community."

Two children found a skull and a portion of a spinal column Tuesday while searching for snakes in a blackberry bush in a vacant lot where transients camp, police said.

Speculation began mounting soon after the bones were found that they could be those of Jackson, who disappeared Dec. 2 while walking to Woodbrook Middle School about two miles from her family's home.

Earlier Wednesday, investigators searched for more bones and other evidence in the area.

Members of the Green River Killer Task Force were at the scene, using their experience looking for skeletal remains in thick brush, and crime scene investigators in white protective suits were scouring the area. Other investigators were aboard a helicopter, mapping the 50-by 75-yard search area.