NBC NATIONAL NEWS — Colorado authorities haven't said yet whether the remains found outside Denver Wednesday night are those of 10 year old Jessica Ridgeway, but they have already shifted the investigation towards looking for suspects.

"It could be your boss. It could be a friend or ultimately, it could be a family member," FBI spokesman Dave Joly warned.

What were searches for Jessica are now searches for evidence that might explain what happened when she disappeared last week while walking to school, the last time her mother saw her.

A body was discovered several miles away from where Jessica lived, but until something definitive is announced the community struggles.

"It's every parent's worse nightmare that's just what it comes back to. I think everybody's just holding their kids a little bit tighter," says search volunteer Lacy Alderete.

Authorities have received nearly 1,200 tips so far.