In a tragic turn of events, police have discovered human remains near the vehicle of missing mother Tayla Spies, who has not been seen for over two months. The discovery was made about one kilometer from where her Toyota Hilux was located in Noorindoo, a town approximately 40 kilometers northeast of Surat, Queensland.
The vehicle, a 2017 white Toyota Hilux, was found on April 3, 2025, at around 3 PM on a private property along Yuleba-Surat Road. Police had been alerted to the vehicle's location after reports indicated it matched the description of Ms. Spies' car. Upon inspection, detectives confirmed it was indeed Tayla's vehicle after finding personal belongings inside, including a hot pink shirt she was wearing on the day she disappeared.
Detective Chief Inspector Garry Watts addressed the media, stating, "Although we cannot confirm at this stage that those remains are those of Tayla, we suspect they may be. However, a complete forensic examination will need to be conducted to verify that." This grim update comes as the search for the 29-year-old mother of three continues.
Tayla Spies was reported missing on February 2, 2025, after not returning home from a weekend trip with her partner in Dalby, Queensland. She was last seen filling her Hilux at a petrol station on Wamo Street in Condamine, before heading west towards Surat. CCTV footage captured her at the service station around 9:30 AM that day, and she was last spotted driving north of Surat on the Carnarvon Highway shortly after.
The police initiated a massive search operation covering an area of approximately 9,000 square kilometers, including the towns of Yuleba, Wallumbilla South, Roma, Teelba, Surat, Glenmorgan, and Meandarra. Unfortunately, the initial search efforts yielded no results, prompting a plea from her family for any information regarding her whereabouts. Tayla's sister, Rebecca Spies, expressed the family's anguish, stating, "The pain and enormity of her absence increases with each day that passes, and the worry is consuming us all. My sister Tayla is funny, brave, thoughtful, and is always there for people when they need her. She loves her family wholeheartedly and never lets us forget it."
After the vehicle was located, police conducted a brief search of the surrounding area but were unable to find Ms. Spies as conditions became too dark for further searching. The search was resumed the following morning, with authorities focusing their resources on the area surrounding the vehicle's location. Inspector Watts noted, "Now we’ve got a location of her motor vehicle, we can hone our resources into that area and conduct a more full and thorough foot search."
The vehicle was found locked and positioned about two kilometers into the property, which is adjacent to the heavily wooded Yuleba State Forest. Despite the discovery of the vehicle and the remains, police have stated there is currently no evidence to suggest that Tayla had been living in her vehicle.
As investigators continue to analyze the scene, they have also been monitoring Ms. Spies' social media accounts and bank transactions in hopes of uncovering any leads. A friend of the Spies family has offered a $5,000 reward for information that could assist in the search for Tayla.
Anyone with information regarding Tayla Spies' whereabouts is urged to contact the Queensland Police or Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000. The family remains hopeful for any updates that could lead to Tayla's safe return, as the search efforts intensify in light of this recent development.
As the investigation unfolds, the community remains on high alert, and the emotional toll on Tayla's family continues to grow as they await answers. The discovery of human remains, while not confirmed to be Tayla's, has added a layer of urgency and sorrow to an already heartbreaking situation. The police have assured the public that they will continue their investigation with the utmost diligence and care.
In the wake of this tragedy, the story of Tayla Spies serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community support during times of crisis. The outpouring of love and concern from friends, family, and the local community highlights the profound impact of her disappearance and the collective hope for resolution.
