Evelyn Boswell's Father Speaks After Body Of Missing Toddler Reportedly Found

Days after authorities say they may have found the body of missing toddler Evelyn Boswell, we are hearing from the 15-month-old girl's father for the first time.

Ethan Perry and his family released a statement through Stephen Pappas, who is engaged to marry Perry's mother, which says the family fully supports the police investigation.

“While we continue to ask for privacy as we grieve this terrible tragedy. It has come to our attention there are various unauthorized fundraising efforts on Evelyn’s and our family’s behalf in regards to Evelyn. Also, there are those on social media claiming to speak for our family, these claims are false," the statement said, according to local news outlet WJHL. "Our focus has always been Evelyn and now on the investigation and bringing all of those responsible to justice. We have complete faith and confidence in law enforcement to do just that."

Perry is currently on active military duty in Louisiana, authorities had previously said.

"We ask you all again to please respect our privacy. At the same time, we would also like to thank the public for their outpouring of love for Evelyn and law enforcement for their incredible dedication to this case. When and if the appropriate time comes for statements, fundraisers etc. It will come from our family and be relayed to, and confirmed by trusted media and or the authorities. Thank you again," the statement concluded.

The statement comes soon after authorities discovered the remains of an unidentified child, believed to be Evelyn, at a property owned by a family member of the girl's mother, Megan Boswell, 18.

"During the search, investigators discovered human remains believed to be those of the missing 15-month-old girl. The remains will be sent for an autopsy and a positive identification," The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation said of the discovery it called a "heartbreaking update" in the case.

Investigators also reportedly found clothing matching the description of the clothes Evelyn was last seen in.

Maggie Boswell Photo: Sullivan County Sheriff's Office

Megan is currently in custody and has been accused of misleading investigators assigned to find her daughter. Authorities learned that although Evelyn was reported missing in February, she had apparently disappeared sometime late last year.

"Every time we talk to her, her story changes," Sullivan County Sheriff Jeff Cassidy previously said, the Knoxville News Sentinel reported. "I'm serious when I say that. Every single time."

Her court-appointed attorney said Megan was “obviously upset at the news" that authorities believe Evelyn is now dead. 

Megan's bond was increased to $150,000 by a judge on Monday.