Officials searching the River Derwent near Pride Park discovered a body just before 10.30am on Sunday, March 29. Police believe they may have discovered the body of an 18-year-old Birmingham City supporter who travelled to attend the club's match against Derby County last weekend, though formal identification of the body has yet to take place. The discovery followed an investigation that began after Paul Pike was seen on CCTV walking along the riverside path. On Friday, March 27, Derbyshire Police said they found items believed to belong to Paul Pike on a path close to Pride Park, and an appeal was made by the police for information. The specific items belonging to Paul Pike that were found on the path near Pride Park have not been disclosed, and his exact route or activities after being seen on CCTV remain unclear, with no confirmation on whether there are any witnesses or additional CCTV footage that could provide more details about his disappearance.
Paul Pike's family has been made aware of the discovery of the body, and they have asked that their privacy is respected at this time. On Friday, March 27, Paul Pike's family issued a heartfelt plea for the 18-year-old to come home.
Paul, you are not in trouble at all, we just want you home. Come home so we can look forward to the cricket season at Warwickshire and the rest of the season for the Blues. I will also sort out the away tickets for Hull.
The death is not being treated as suspicious and there is not believed to be any third-party involvement. Police thanked the 'large number of people' for their efforts in finding Paul Pike, with several groups, including both Rams' and Blues' fans, carrying out searches in the area over the last week.
A file is now being prepared for the coroner. What caused Paul Pike's death remains unknown, and it is not yet clear when formal identification of the body will be completed and the results announced.