The town of Güstrow in northern Germany has been left heartbroken after the tragic confirmation that eight-year-old Fabian, who went missing earlier this month, has been found dead. His disappearance sparked one of the region’s largest search efforts, with police, firefighters, and volunteers joining forces to bring him home.

Authorities used drones, sniffer dogs, and thermal cameras, covering vast areas in hopes of finding the boy alive. But after several agonizing days, that hope ended when a body believed to be Fabian’s was discovered in a field near Klein Upahl, about 15 kilometers from his home.

While formal identification is pending, police say strong evidence points to Fabian. Officials have withheld details about the cause of death to protect the investigation, which remains open to all possibilities, including foul play. Forensic teams continue to examine the scene carefully.

Fabian was last seen near a bus stop in Güstrow, where witnesses recalled spotting a boy matching his description. Some reported seeing him with a woman nearby before he vanished. Investigators are now reviewing surveillance footage and witness statements to reconstruct his final moments.

The discovery has deeply shaken the community. Outside St. Mary’s Church, residents have built a memorial of candles, flowers, and stuffed animals in Fabian’s memory. Schools have lowered flags and offered grief counseling to students struggling to process the loss.

Local officials expressed profound sorrow and vowed justice. “This is a tragedy that has shaken us to our core,” one said. “Fabian was just a child — and we will not rest until we know what happened.”

Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward. They’ve asked the public to avoid speculation and trust the process.

As Güstrow grieves, one promise unites the town: “We will not forget Fabian.”