Something I've been wondering: is the family of the victim usually notified of any new developments before the information is released to the press and the public? Does anyone know what the standard procedure is? Just asking because in the past couple of days there have been quite a few indignant posts on the Find Mickey Shunick Now FB page by (I'm assuming) a family member, claiming that news sources have been out of line. This doesn't really have any bearing on the case, just wondering. I've seen a few replies to those posts that are taking the media's side; I hope this doesn't become bitter, because everyone needs to work together.
I think sometimes family doesn't want to believe what is being reported because it might point to a negative outcome. They want to still believe their daughter/sister/etc. is still alive and for instance, believing that her bike was found doesn't really point to that conclusion.
The police do communicate with the family before announcing the positive ID of a body for sure. I think everything else depends on that particular LE agency.