Taylor Anderson death in Japan tsunami

Taylor Anderson's family confirms her death in Japan tsunami

The first known American victim of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami has been identified, according to MSNBC. Taylor Anderson's family apparently learned the news early Monday (March 21).

"It is with deep regret that we inform you that earlier this morning we received a call from the U.S. Embassy in Japan that they had found our beloved Taylor's body," the Anderson family says in a statement. "We would like to thank all those (whose) prayers and support have carried us through this crisis. Please continue to pray for all who remain missing and for the people of Japan."

Anderson, a Richmond, Va. native and school teacher, who had been living in Japan since 2008, was last seen leaving the school where she teaches and heading home on her bike. Before leaving, she helped students to get home after the earthquake. It is believed that she was caught in the resulting tsunami.

"Shortly thereafter, the tsunami warning sirens started to sound," her father, Andy Anderson, said last week. "She probably had 10, 15 minutes of bike riding before the water hit."

Anderson was one of the estimated 50,000 Americans known to be in Japan when the earthquake hit. There have been no reports as to any other American deaths as of the posting of this article.

Her parents appeared on the "Today" show last week to talk about their search for their daughter. Read Whole Story...