SAN DIEGO (NEWS 8) — A body found in Temecula has been positively identified as that of a missing woman from National City.
Detectives looking for Alexandria Nicole Smith discovered her body just off Pala Road on Thursday.
"We're really hoping for everyone's prayer for Alex," said her friend Erica Burillo. "We hope she's in a better place and she's at peace."
Burillo was at work when she found out her friend Alexandria Smith was found dead.
"She was my only friend when I was little," said Burillo. "She was my best friend. My closest friend and we spent every day together."
Last week, Burillo and Smith's family canvassed the county with missing posters.
30-year-old mother Smith told her family she was going to a party in National City on Oct. 2.
Her mother reported her missing the following day.
Soon after her cell phone was found in a dumpster in Vista.
Then on Thursday afternoon police found Smith's body in Riverside County.
Her family says she was strangled.
"Even with the information that we do have nothing, to us, makes any sense," said Burillo. "I think that right now is the hardest thing, just to wait."
Investigators say there are several persons of interest, but so far no one is in custody.
Her family said she used drugs in the past and suffered from depression.
Police say they suspect foul play.
"She was always laughing. She was a happy person," said Burillo. "She got sad like anybody else - she fought depression like others, but had so many people that cared for her and were there for her."
Smith's family and friends are preparing to say goodbye and raising money on Go Fund Me.
"Her mom is on disability so it's hard to put her daughter to rest in peace and have a proper funeral," said Burillo.
And hoping someone comes forward to catch those responsible for her death.
"Please help her and her family," said Burillo. "She was a kind person and a loving person. Don't be afraid to reach out."
Anyone with information about Smith's death is asked to contact the National City Police Department or Crimestoppers.
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