California teen's mother says body found in Los Gatos park is her missing child

The mother of a missing California teenager Katie Schneider, who was last seen on July 5, said she believes her daughter was found dead in a park over the weekend.

Officials found human remains near Castle Rock Park in Los Gatos, California on Saturday and the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office said the county medical examiner has not yet determined the identify of the person located, according to CBS News.

Nola Schneider shared in an Instagram post the "devastating news" that her 17-year-old daughter died in a car wreck.

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"The Santa Clara County Sheriff’s office informed us that Katie’s remains were found in the vicinity of her vehicle in a ravine near Castle Rock State Park. At this time, the circumstances surrounding the heartbreaking incident are still under investigation," Nola wrote Sunday.

USA TODAY has reached out to the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office and medical examiner for clarification.

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'She radiated authenticity'

"It is hard to put into words how much Katie will be missed. Katie was a bright light that brought emotional vibrancy to our everyday lives. She radiated authenticity, thoughtfulness, a great sense of humor, and an unyielding determination. She taught us all how to live our biggest life without reservation," Nola wrote.

Nola thanked all agencies, community members and friends who helped with the search for Katie including the Sheriff's Office, search and rescue teams, FindingKids.org, National Center for Missing and Exploited Kids, private investigators and families with home security video, among many others.

"As we mourn the loss of our fearless and cherished Katie, we kindly ask for privacy to grieve and come to terms with this profound loss," Nola wrote.

Katie was last seen leaving her Saratoga, California home in a white 2019 Honda Accord, according to a news release issued by the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday. Authorities found the vehicle on Aug. 7 unoccupied on State Route 35, also referred to as Skyline Boulevard, near Castle Rock State Park. Sheriff's officials said told CBS News investigation is still active. 

The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office encouraged anyone with information to contact them at (408) 808-4500 or through the department's anonymous tip line at (408) 808-4431 or PIO@shf.sccgov.org.