Buffalo police announced this week that a 12-year-old boy, missing since August 2020, was found in the attic of an apartment approximately five miles away from where he was last seen.

During a press conference on Monday, Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia revealed that Jaylen Griffin’s body was discovered last Friday after a search lasting three and a half years. Commissioner Gramaglia informed reporters that the boy’s body was found less than a week after what would have been his 16th birthday.

“The body that was located in the house had been there for a significant amount of time,” stated Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia. “I want to extend my sincerest sympathies to the family of Jaylen. This department has conducted extensive searches, and I want Jaylen’s family to know that we are working diligently to bring closure for them.”

Tragically, Griffin’s brother Jawaan was fatally shot in front of the family’s home in November 2020, just three months after Jaylen’s disappearance. Additionally, Griffin’s mother, Joanne Ponzo, passed away in September 2023.

Brian Griffin, the boy’s father, expressed some relief upon receiving confirmation of his son’s fate. However, he voiced frustration that the police did not notify him of the discovery of his son’s body.

Gramaglia explained that the Erie County Medical Examiner had to use dental records to identify Griffin. Neighbors reported that the house where Griffin was found frequently had occupants moving in and out, and police had responded to incidents there on multiple occasions over the years. Griffin’s body was discovered by a maintenance worker.

Local pastor Tim Newkirk, a friend of the Griffin family, questioned the circumstances surrounding Jaylen’s death and the length of time his body had been in the house. He also wondered if anyone had noticed any unusual odors emanating from the residence.

Griffin’s mother previously told PEOPLE in 2021 that her son went missing after taking his new puppy for a walk. Police announced during Monday’s press conference that they are offering a $7,500 reward for information leading to the arrest or indictment of those responsible for Jaylen Griffin’s death.

“This investigation has been going on for over three-and-a-half years,” Gramaglia said. “It’s been an exhaustive investigation.”

The police commissioner added: “This is nothing short of a tragedy for a 12-year-old boy to go missing and for it to end this way. This is an absolute tragedy and it’s very sad.”