Teenager Found Dead Identified As Northwest High School Senior

GERMANTOWN, MD — A 17-year-old who was found dead on the 18900 block of Grotto Lane in Germantown on Monday was a Northwest High School senior, according to a letter sent to families by the school's principal.

The victim, Jailyn Jones, had been missing since Jan. 7, according to the National Center For Missing And Exploited Children and as reported by abc7. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore will determine the cause of death, and police said it is an active homicide investigation.

Jailyn's principal described him as a person with "a large personality, infectious smile, and overall amazing spirit."

"It is very difficult for all of us to face the death of a young person," Principal Scott Smith wrote. "Today, a support team of psychologists, counselors, and pupil personnel workers from Montgomery County Public Schools will continue to work with our staff members to provide counseling and support to students."

Police are asking anyone with information to call the Major Crimes Division at 240-773-5070 or 240-773-TIPS, or contact Crime Solvers of Montgomery County toll-free at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). There may be a reward for information that leads to an arrest of a suspect, police said.

This story has been updated.