Derbyshire Police have confirmed the tragic discovery of a body in the search for missing Birmingham City supporter Paul Pike. The teenager vanished after attending his team's away match against Derby County at Pride Park on Saturday, March 21.
Search Ends in Tragedy
A significant missing persons investigation was launched by Derbyshire Police following Paul Pike's disappearance. The search involved numerous individuals from both the local area and Birmingham, Paul's home city.
Officers searching the River Derwent, close to Pride Park where Paul was last seen, discovered a body just before 10:30 am on Sunday, March 29. While formal identification is pending, the police believe it to be that of the missing fan.
Police Statement and Family Privacy
A police statement read: "A body, believed to be that of missing Birmingham City fan Paul, has been found. Officers searching the River Derwent near Pride Park, close to where Paul was last seen, discovered the body just before 10.30am today (Sunday 29 March)."
The statement continued: "While formal identification has not yet taken place, Paul’s family have been made aware, and they have asked that their privacy is respected at this time. The death is not being treated as suspicious and there is not believed to be any third-party involvement."
Authorities expressed gratitude for the public support during the search efforts, noting the involvement of many volunteers. A file is now being prepared for the coroner as the investigation moves forward.
The news marks a sorrowful conclusion to the extensive search for the young football fan, who was last seen outside the stadium minutes after the Championship fixture.
