Investigation into Multiple Murders in Grove, Arizona
Grove, Arizona – The Gira County Sheriff’s Office has launched an investigation into another murder in the same area where 14-year-old Emily Pike was tragically killed.
Emily’s body was discovered on Valentine’s Day, north of Grove along Highway 60 at Milepost 277, placed inside a contractor’s garbage bag. Disturbingly, her arms and hands are reported missing.
The teenager had been missing from a group home in Mesa since January 27. In response to her death, various vigils have been held in memory of the teen at San Carlos Apache, reflecting a community yearning for justice.
The sheriff’s office is collaborating with multiple agencies, including the FBI, and recently established a task force to concentrate on the case and any incoming tips. While authorities mentioned that there is some surveillance footage related to the incident, details on what it shows remain undisclosed.
Although progress is being made, sheriff’s deputies noted that there are still many unanswered questions. “We haven’t found any weapons or clear suspects yet,” stated GCSO Lt. Jim Lahti. “We’re actively investigating various leads.”
As the investigation into Emily Pike’s murder continues, it’s worth noting that the same division is also looking into another unsolved homicide in the vicinity.
Back in September 2021, deputies discovered the body of Leo Harry White, a 31-year-old man from Wheytelver, shot multiple times inside a vehicle parked on US 60 at MilePost 277. Authorities were alerted to the car during a welfare check. Although there are several leads regarding his case, no arrests have been made. An online obituary describes him as a dedicated father who loved the outdoors.
An official from the Gira County Sheriff’s Office pointed out significant differences between the murders of Emily Pike and Leo White. “The circumstances appear distinct. It seems that Leo was killed where he was found in the vehicle, whereas Emily likely was murdered elsewhere.”
Due to these differences, the Sheriff’s Office currently sees no connection between the two cases. Both investigations remain open, and as part of their efforts regarding Emily’s case, GCSO plans to gather tips from social media platforms. They hope that public awareness might help with her case and possibly provide leads for Leo White’s unresolved murder.
