THE Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) has launched an investigation into Thames Valley Police's response to a missing person's report and their subsequent actions following the disappearance of Jayden Parkinson.

The 17-year-old was reported missing in the early hours of December 4, last year and her body was discovered on December 18. 

Thames Valley Police referred the matter to the IPCC on December 14 and an independent investigation began.

IPCC Associate Commissioner Guido Liguori said: "This is a desperately sad case where a teenage girl has lost her life.

"Our investigators have met with Jayden’s family to explain our role and investigation. I know my condolences will be of little comfort to them as they continue to grieve over their loss.

"Our investigation is examining the response of Thames Valley Police to the missing person’s report, and whether the individual and collective decisions made by police officers or staff and the related actions were appropriate and proportionate in the circumstances.

"I am mindful that a murder investigation is continuing and therefore we must be cautious about the information we make public so as not to interfere with the ongoing criminal proceedings."