Girl murdered near home

AN EIGHT-YEAR-OLD Bundaberg girl has been found dead near her family home in Walker Street.

Police have confirmed they are investigating the death as a murder.

The girl was reported missing just after 5.30am today and, soon afterwards, her body was found in a drain by a general duties police officer.

It is believed the youngster was abducted overnight after a break and enter, and her parents woke this morning to discover their daughter was missing.

 "Early indications are it's a possible break and enter at that premises," Detective Superintendent Maurice Carless told a media conference at Bundaberg police station this afternoon.  

"We're certainly treating it as a murder."