Police now calling case of missing Morenci boys a murder investigation

MORENCI, Mich. (WXYZ) - During a Tuesday afternoon news conference, Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks announced that they are shifting the status on the investigation into the disappearance of three young brothers. They are now calling this case a murder investigation.

Chief Weeks informed the boys' mother Tanya Skelton two weeks ago. He said he wanted to prevent the spreading of false hope that Andrew, Tanner and Alexander would be found alive. The boys have been missing since Thanksgiving.

Tanya's pastor and her friend spoke on her behalf. Pastor Donna Galloway told reporters, "Tayna knows she will see Alexander, Andrew and Tanner again. When her time comes they will be waiting there for her".

Family friend Kathye Herrera said if she could talk to John Skelton she'd ask him to tell where the boys are. "Tanya needs closure and to put her boys in the ground, the whole community needs closure. The goal is still to bring the boys home."

Their father, John Skelton, is being held on a $30 million dollar bond in the disappearance of the boys.

Last time he was in court, Skelton said he turned the boys over to an organization, but would not tell the court which organization. The boys were last seen at Skelton's home in on Thanksgiving day in Morenci.

A memorial service is being planned along with three fundraisers to increase the current $23,000 reward. The money will be paid to anyone providing information leading to the recovery of the bodies or evidence leading to the prosecution of their father.