Valerie Tindall Identified as 17-Year-Old Girl Found Buried on Suspect’s Property

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Sheriff’s Official Identifies Remains of Missing Indiana Teen Found Buried on Suspect’s Property

ARLINGTON, Ind.—In a tragic turn of events, the remains of 17-year-old Valerie Tindall, who disappeared in June, have been positively identified by an Indiana coroner. The discovery of her body, which was found buried in a box on land owned by a man now charged in her slaying, has sent shockwaves through the community.

The remains were found on Tuesday on the property of Patrick Scott, the prime suspect in Valerie’s disappearance. Rush County Coroner Brenda McMahan confirmed the identification, but the cause and manner of Valerie’s death are still pending toxicology reports and a final autopsy report.

The Rush County Sheriff’s Office released a statement on Thursday, expressing their “deepest condolences to the family and friends of Valerie Tindall during this time of mourning.” The news of Valerie’s death has devastated the community, as they had held onto hope for her safe return.

Patrick Scott, a 59-year-old man who owned a lawn-mowing business, was charged with murder, obstruction of justice, and false informing on Thursday. He appeared in court, where a judge ordered him to be held without bond. A public defender was appointed to represent Mr. Scott during his initial hearing.

The Rush County Public Defender’s office has declined to comment on the case involving Mr. Scott, leaving many unanswered questions for Valerie’s family and the community.

Valerie had been working for Mr. Scott prior to her disappearance. According to court documents, she told her parents on June 7 that she was going to work. Later that day, Mr. Scott claimed he drove Valerie back to his home in Arlington, a rural community located about 30 miles southeast of Indianapolis.

During the investigation, Mr. Scott admitted to strangling Valerie with his belt in the bedroom of his home. He claimed that she had attempted to blackmail and seduce him, according to court documents. The shocking details of Valerie’s demise have left the community in disbelief and anguish.

The search for Valerie was extensive since her disappearance, with numerous efforts made to locate her. On October 11, cadaver-sniffing dogs indicated the smell of decomposition in a pond near Mr. Scott’s property. However, a thorough search at the time failed to yield any results, leaving investigators puzzled.

On Tuesday, police investigators made a breakthrough when they discovered a large dirt pile and debris on Mr. Scott’s property. Upon further digging, they uncovered a rectangular box wrapped in tarp, containing human remains that were later confirmed to be Valerie’s.

Valerie’s mother, Shena Sandefur, spoke to reporters about the devastating loss. She revealed that her family had placed their trust in Mr. Scott, as he was their neighbor and had a close relationship with Valerie. “She and him had a bond. They were friends,” Ms. Sandefur said. “She worked for him, but she also hung out with his family. His granddaughter was her friend, and we went places with them.”

The shocking revelation of Valerie’s fate has left the community in a state of mourning. As the investigation unfolds, the community demands justice for Valerie, ensuring that her story serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and safety in all relationships..