Devastating blow for family of missing 14-year-old girl as cops reveal a grim development

The extensive search for a missing teenage girl has been ‘paused’ after police spent almost three weeks scouring a river in Tasmania’s north-east.

Shyanne-Lee Tatnell, 14, was last seen near the North Esk River in Launceston on the night of April 30.

Police had been searching the river and surrounding area for two-and-a-half weeks but the 14-year-old has not been found.

Tasmania Police announced on Thursday the large scale search of the area has been paused, despite serious concerns for Shyanne’s welfare.

Tasmanian Police have paused the search for teenager Shyanne-Lee Tatnell (pictured), who has been missing

‘After extensive searching in the area over two and a half weeks, there has unfortunately been no sign of Shyanne,’ Inspector Craig Fox said in a statement.

‘Police have continued to be in close contact with Shyanne’s family, and our thoughts remain with them at this difficult time.’

‘While the large scale search of the area has been paused, the investigation remains active and inquiries are continuing.

‘We are forensically testing further items of interest that have been located over the past fortnight.’

Police added the investigation into missing teen Shyanne-Lee Tatnell (pictured) is ongoing

Police added the investigation is ongoing.

Shyanne was last seen wearing bike shorts and a cream hoodie with dark writing across the chest and shoulder.

She is 160cm tall with a slim build and blonde hair.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers.