A body discovered yesterday in rural Colombia is believed to be that of Eric Fernando Gutiérrez Molina, the 32-year-old American Airlines flight attendant who vanished during a layover in Medellín last weekend.

Medellín Mayor Federico Gutiérrez announced the finding on social media Friday, stating there is a "very high probability" the remains belong to Gutiérrez Molina, a U.S. citizen based in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The body was located between the municipalities of Jericó and Puente Iglesias and transported to the legal medicine authorities in Medellín for identification and autopsy. Officials notified Gutiérrez Molina's family, including his father, who traveled to Colombia to assist in the search, as well as the U.S. ambassador and consul general.

Gutiérrez Molina arrived in Medellín on March 21 aboard a flight from Miami for an overnight layover. He went out that Saturday night in the popular El Poblado neighborhood with two coworkers, a man and a woman. Surveillance footage and witness accounts show him last seen early Sunday, March 22, leaving a club with the pair before heading to another venue with the woman and unidentified individuals. He failed to report for his return flight to Miami that day, prompting concern from colleagues and family. His phone later pinged at two locations far from his hotel.

Medellín Security Secretary Manuel Villa Mejía revealed Thursday that investigators identified the last people seen with Gutiérrez Molina, some with prior records involving scopolamine, a drug known as "devil's breath" used in thefts and assaults. The female coworker was found disoriented and unable to recall parts of the night, leading authorities to consider her a potential victim as well. Vehicles and phones linked to the group have been traced, though no arrests were reported as of Saturday evening.

The mayor indicated Colombian police and prosecutors have "very clear leads on those responsible" and that extradition could be pursued if needed. The cause of death remains undetermined pending autopsy results, with investigators probing whether foul play was involved.

Ernesto Carranza, Gutiérrez Molina's longtime partner, described the ordeal as shattering in earlier statements, saying, "I want to believe that he's alive, and I want to continue believing that he's alive." His best friend, Sharom Gil, called him "the most joyful person to ever be around." American Airlines confirmed it is cooperating with local law enforcement and supporting the family. The U.S. State Department is monitoring the case and stands ready to provide consular assistance.

The Association of Professional Flight Attendants is also aiding efforts. Authorities continue their investigation as formal identification awaits.