Fernandes' mother, Ailiana Fernandes, and aunt Isabel Fernandes spoke to The Associated Press late Monday, less than a day before the police announcement. Natalie Khawam, who is representing the Fernandes family, said Army police told family members about the discovery late Tuesday night. U.S. Army officials confirmed Wednesday that initial identification points to the body found being Fernandes and said they were grieving with the Fernandes family. According to Isabel Fernandes, the family was told by Army officials that a different superior signed her nephew's hospital release. Army officials said Wednesday that he was dropped off by a superior at the door of the residence where he had asked to be taken.

Source: ABC News August 26, 2020 05:55 UTC