Bones are confirmed to be those of adventurer Fossett

MADERA, Calif. -- Authorities said Monday they have identified some of Steve Fossett's remains: two large bones found a half-mile from where the adventurer's plane crashed in California's Sierra Nevada.

Madera County Sheriff John Anderson said DNA tests by the state Department of Justice identified the bones as the remains of the millionaire who disappeared last year.

Anderson has declined to say what bones were found, saying he didn't want to cause the family further anguish. The bones were found last week.

Fossett's widow, Peggy Fossett, released a statement: "I am hopeful that the DNA identification puts a definitive end to all of the speculation surrounding Steve's death. This has been an incredibly difficult time for me, and I am thankful to everyone who helped bring closure."

Fossett was last seen when he took off in September 2007 from a Nevada ranch.