Cops today said remains found along a hiking trail in Pacific Palisades were those of missing UCLA student David Goeser.

The LAPD says in a statement that the 23-year-old “died from a single gunshot wound to the head” and that “a semiautomatic pistol was also found next to the body.”

The remains, including a skull and torso, were found …

Saturday about 11:15 a.m. in the 500 block of Los Liones Drive along a hiking trail in in Los Liones Canyon, police said.


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Goeser was an honors student whose Toyota Corolla was found near Los Liones Drive and Sunset Boulevard a few days after he was reported missing July 22.

Family members were concerned because, they said, he needed regular medication.

Friends had set up a “Find David Goeser” Facebook page.

A memorial service was scheduled for 2 p.m. on Oct. 6 at Calvary Community Church in Westlake Village.

Family members indicated that they were planning on setting up a “memorial fund” in his honor.

According to a family statement …

… we are deeply saddened to report that Wednesday, September 26, the Los Angeles County Coroner's office confirmed that the remains found this past Saturday belong to our dear son, David. Regrettably, David took his own life. While we grieve this tremendous loss, we are immensely grateful for the love and support of all who helped us in our search.

[Added at 2:38 p.m.]: UCLA Chancellor Gene Block stated this today in reaction to news of Goeser's death:

The UCLA community mourns this tragedy. Our thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences are with his family and friends.

More from UCLA.

[@dennisjromero / djromero@laweekly.com / @LAWeeklyNews]

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