Some of Emily Pike’s remains were discovered in garbage bags two weeks after her last sighting near her group home. As of now, no arrests have been made.
Phoenix – The Gila County Sheriff’s Office is actively pursuing tips around the clock in connection with the murder investigation of 14-year-old Emily Pike.
“Our detectives have been receiving calls for several days,” Jim Rathi mentioned during a recent update. “They’re hearing from people who think they might have seen something or heard something relevant.”
Emily was described by her family as a music lover with a bright, infectious smile. She was a cherished member of the San Carlos Apache tribe.
Unfortunately, she was last seen on foot on January 27 near Mesa Drive and McKellips Road after leaving her group home.
Surveillance footage from the area of Emily’s last known whereabouts
The Gila County Sheriff’s Office reports that while they faced challenges in the area where Emily’s remains were found, they did manage to secure surveillance footage from nearby locations.
“It’s a rural area without housing or commercial establishments, just a wooded region,” Rathi explained.
On February 14, Emily’s body was found near the US-60 highway, specifically near Grove, with her head and torso in a garbage bag.
However, investigators do not believe this is where her death occurred.
“One of the major focuses of the investigation is determining what transpired between the end of January and February 14,” Rathi noted.
Federal support joins the investigation
The Sheriff’s Office has brought in the FBI, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the San Carlos Apache Tribal Police to assist with the investigation.
“The FBI will conduct interviews to gather information from family, friends, and acquaintances. Even minor details can lead to important insights. They’re also looking into her digital activity,” Rathi mentioned.
As of Friday night, there were still no suspects or people of interest identified. Part of Emily’s remains has not yet been located, but officials assure there is no active threat to the public. The Gila County Sheriff’s Office was asked how they can ensure public safety while the suspect remains unidentified.
“Yes, there’s nothing indicating that the public should be alarmed. I understand that having a body found raises concerns. But regarding suggestions about a serial killer—do you think this is indicative of such?”
Emily’s death sparks a call for justice regarding MMIW
The murder of Emily has reverberated throughout Indigenous communities, igniting discussions about missing and murdered Indigenous women. Her name and story are being shared widely to ensure she is not forgotten.
“The detectives have said they’re getting a lot of calls from people. I urge everyone not to let this case fade away. We really appreciate the concern and support—we’re committed to this investigation,” Rathi stated.
Emily’s cause of death is still under examination by a medical examiner.
If you have any information related to Emily’s case, please reach out to the Gila County Sheriff’s Office at 928-200-2352, the Bureau of Indian Affairs Special Agents at 505-917-7830, or the San Carlos Apache Tribal Police at 928-475-1755.
