Phoenix Investigation into Teen’s Death

The FBI is involved in the investigation of the murder of 14-year-old Emily Pike, who left a group home in Mesa. Her dismembered remains were discovered on a rural road northeast of Grove on Valentine’s Day.

The Gira County Sheriff’s Office, leading the investigation, announced on Wednesday that they are working with the FBI and other agencies to pursue leads that may lead to arrests.

Retired special FBI agent Jim Eggleston expressed concern, noting that if the perpetrator has a history of such crimes, it’s quite unsettling.

Eggleston shared insights on what detectives might be pursuing and why the FBI’s involvement is crucial.

Mesa police reported that Emily left the group home on January 27.

Her body was found on Highway 60, north of Grove, dismembered and placed in a garbage bag, with her hands and arms missing.

True crime correspondent Brianna Whitney posed a question about whether this was the first murder for the person responsible.

Eggleston speculated that it could be possible, hinting that the individual might have needed some means of transportation to commit the crime.

He noted that the FBI likely began their investigation using technology.

“They are analyzing mobile phone data not just from Emily’s phone but also any devices in the vicinity where she was last seen and found. This could help identify a suspect,” Eggleston explained.

Moreover, investigators are looking for behavioral clues from the crime scene, questioning whether the killer left a signature or if there were specific reasons behind the mutilation of Emily’s remains.

“Perhaps she struggled, and there might be DNA evidence under her nails,” Eggleston suggested. “It’s possible the assailant wanted to eliminate any chances of being caught.”

He emphasized the importance of understanding Emily’s activities prior to her disappearance but remained uncertain if the attacker was someone she knew or a stranger she encountered after leaving.

“I think she might have trusted the wrong person in a vulnerable moment,” Eggleston reflected.

He mentioned that the coroner’s report will be vital in determining how Emily met her fate and possibly the weapon involved.

The Gira County Sheriff’s Office stated they could not reveal further details to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.