Human remains discovered in a submerged car in Florida waters are believed to belong to Mary Lou Combs, a mother who vanished without a trace 22 years ago, according to investigators.

The remains were recovered from a vehicle found in a Florida waterway during what appears to be part of an ongoing investigation into Combs' disappearance. Combs went missing in 2002, leaving behind family members who have spent more than two decades searching for answers about her fate.

Investigators have not yet provided details about the specific location where the submerged vehicle was discovered or the circumstances that led to its recovery. The identification process for the remains is expected to involve forensic analysis to confirm the identity.

The case represents one of many long-term missing person investigations in Florida, where vehicles and remains are occasionally discovered in bodies of water years or decades after initial disappearances. The discovery may finally provide closure to Combs' family members who have maintained hope for answers throughout the lengthy search.

Authorities have not released additional information about the ongoing investigation or timeline for formal identification of the remains.