Authorities said the human head that washed ashore in Key Biscayne on Tuesday belonged to a teen swimmer who disappeared off South Beach over the weekend.
On Saturday, Miami Beach police responded to South Pointe Park after reports of a swimmer in distress.
Officers identified the victim as Victor Enrique Castaneda Jr., 19, who had reportedly gone into the water with his younger sister.
Police said Castaneda and his sister got caught in a rip current. The sister made it to safety, but Castaneda was not seen reemerging from the water.
Miami-Dade police said a person raking the beach found the remains and notified law enforcement who confirmed it was a human head on Tuesday morning .
Police confirmed on Friday that the remains are Castaneda, following the medical examiners confirmation.
"The Miami Beach Police Department extends prayers and condolences to the family. Our victim advocates will continue to provide support to the family during this time," Miami Beach police said.
Miami Beach police said they are still investigating Castaneda's death at this time.
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