The search for missing siblings Jeffrey, 10, and Emma, 8, from Groningen, Netherlands, ended tragically Wednesday with the discovery of their bodies, along with that of their father, in a submerged car. The vehicle was found in a canal near Winschoten.

The children had been missing since Saturday afternoon after being abducted by their 67-year-old father, Klaas Bijl. Authorities issued an Amber Alert on Sunday as concerns grew for their well-being, prompting an extensive search operation.

On Tuesday evening, a grey Toyota was located in the water. Following the retrieval of the car, the bodies of the father and his two children were discovered inside, and their identities were confirmed by police on Wednesday.

The family of the children released a statement expressing their profound grief, saying they were “shocked, angry, and deeply saddened” and that “no words can describe what we are feeling right now.”

Reportedly, the father had expressed intentions to end his own life and the lives of his children.

Oldambt Mayor Cora Yfke Sikkema stated, “The worst scenario has unfortunately become reality,” adding, “A dramatic outcome for the family, friends, but also classmates and former classmates and friends. And also for everyone who lived with it.”