PHOENIX, AZ – The Gila County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) has identified the remains of a female juvenile discovered on Valentine’s Day near milepost 277 along U.S. Highway 60, east of Globe, Arizona.

In a statement released on February 27, 2025, officials confirmed that the remains belonged to 14-year-old Emily Pike, a member of the San Carlos Apache Tribe.

Pike had been reported as a missing/runaway juvenile through the Mesa Police Department.

Authorities have notified her next of kin.

On February 26, GCSO addressed concerns regarding a Facebook post related to the case.

Officials stated that due to the sensitive nature of the investigation, additional inquiries were necessary before releasing information to the public.

“Due to the circumstances, it was decided that further information needed to be investigated before any public notification. There was no indication that there was an active threat to the community,” GCSO stated.

Authorities also confirmed that details about the case had been prematurely leaked online, as the information was originally intended solely for law enforcement agencies.

The circumstances surrounding Pike’s disappearance and death remain under active investigation.

Officials have not yet disclosed any details regarding potential suspects, cause of death, or whether foul play is suspected.

GCSO is urging anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in the investigation.

No further details have been released at this time.