Bones, Teeth and a Car Key Found During Search for Woman Who Vanished While Walking in the Wilderness 2 Years Ago

Authorities in Tasmania have reported a somber development in the long-running search for a Belgian woman who disappeared in the state’s remote wilderness nearly two years ago.

In a statement issued Tuesday, Feb. 10, Tasmania Police confirmed that a recent two-day search operation near the Arthur River led investigators to the discovery of five bones, two teeth, and a Honda car key believed to be connected to Celine Cremer.

“Police have today formally verified that the car key belongs to Celine,” said Commander Nathan Johnston.

He described the search as “thorough and methodical,” noting that several items were recovered from challenging terrain.

“Many of these items were located beneath debris, embedded in the riverbed itself,” Johnston said.

The findings follow an earlier discovery made less than two weeks prior, when human remains — not yet formally identified — were located as part of the same investigation into Cremer’s disappearance.

Cremer, 31, was last seen in June 2023 in Waratah, a historic mining town situated along the edge of the Tarkine rainforest. Authorities believe she subsequently drove to Philosopher Falls, where she planned to take what was described as a short bushwalk.

Nine days later, friends reported her missing. Her vehicle was found near the falls the following day.

Search and rescue teams spent weeks combing the rugged landscape, battling cold temperatures and harsh weather conditions that complicated recovery efforts. Despite extensive operations, no trace of Cremer was initially found.

Months later, in December, a private search group located her phone — a discovery that reinvigorated the investigation.

“I don’t think there was a dry eye in the area,” said Rob Parsons, an adventure filmmaker involved in the effort, speaking to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

The search took a critical turn again on Jan. 28, 2026, when a bushwalker discovered human remains near Philosopher Falls and promptly alerted authorities.

“While forensic testing is yet to be completed, a pathologist has reviewed images and confirmed the remains are human,” Inspector Andrew Hanson said at the time.

Hanson acknowledged the emotional toll of the developments.

“We understand how distressing this development may be for her loved ones,” he said. “Formal forensic analysis is required before we can determine whether the remains belong to Celine.”

Two days after that discovery, additional remains and clothing — including a polar fleece jacket — were located in the same region along the Arthur River. Although forensic testing is still underway, investigators indicated that the nature and location of the items strongly suggest a connection to Cremer.

Ahead of the most recent search, officials emphasized their commitment to providing answers.

“Our priority is to recover as much as we can, to build a complete picture of what has occurred, and to help provide answers for Celine’s family,” police said in a Feb. 6 statement. “That remains at the heart of this operation.”