Body found off shore at Lanier Point Park

GAINESVILLE, Ga. - Gainesville Police said a boater discovered a body in the water Saturday afternoon, near Lanier Point Park.

This comes after Friday's ground search in the disappearance of 23-year-old Lizeth Ruby Ruiz, who had been missing since May 18 after she spent the evening with friends at the park. 

Police confirmed the body belonged to a woman. Crews recovered the body away from shore.

Police tell FOX 5 they notified the family of Ruiz of the discovery.

Family friends tell our station they are waiting for an official identification before assuming any possible worst outcome.

The body has been taken to the GBI Crime Lab for an identification and an autopsy. 

Authorities remind people to be safe around Lake Lanier this holiday weekend, and wear live vests in the water, or refrain from alcohol. 

FOX 5 will continue to update this story.