The Gila County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) has confirmed that the human remains discovered in a wooded area northeast of Globe on February 14 belong to 14-year-old Emily Pike, a missing Native American girl from the San Carlos Apache Tribe. The Mesa Police Department officially identified the victim on Friday, nearly three weeks after she was last seen near Mesa Drive and McKellips Road on January 27.
The GCSO is now leading a homicide investigation into Pike’s tragic death. Her remains were found in a remote location off U.S. Highway 60, just a few miles from the Jackson Butte Recreation Area, approximately 19 miles from Globe. Authorities made the gruesome discovery in large contractor bags, with Pike’s head and torso found together, while her legs were in separate bags. Despite extensive searches of the area, her arms and hands remain missing.
The preliminary autopsy revealed visible trauma to Pike’s face and head, but the official cause of death remains undetermined. Investigators did not find any identifying clothing, jewelry, or personal items with the remains.
Authorities have emphasized that, at this time, there is no active threat to the community. The San Carlos Apache Police Department is assisting in the ongoing investigation, along with the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA).
The case took a distressing turn when confidential details of the investigation, including specifics about the condition of the remains, were leaked on Facebook. The GCSO has condemned the unauthorized release, stating that such sensitive information was intended solely for law enforcement agencies.
Investigators are urging anyone with information to come forward. Those who may have seen or heard anything relevant to the case are encouraged to contact:
📞 Gila County Sheriff’s Office Detective: 928-200-2352
📞 Bureau of Indian Affairs Special Agent: 505-917-7830
📞 San Carlos Apache Tribal Police Detective: 928-475-1755
The Gila County community and the San Carlos Apache Tribe mourn the loss of Emily Pike, as authorities work tirelessly to seek justice for the young girl.
