Advertisement

'Devastated': Body found in four-day search for missing footballer

sam goodwin
Sports Editor
·4-min read
James Dean, pictured here in action during his football career.
Police have found a body believed to be James Dean. Image: Twitter

The football world has been rocked by tragedy after police found a body in the search for missing star James Dean.

The 35-year-old, who played professionally for Halifax and Chorley FC in the UK, was last seen in Oswaldtwistle at around midnight on Wednesday, May 5.

'SHAMELESS': Fans blast $250 million Hazard's reaction to loss

'SHOCKING': English Premier League rocked by 'unacceptable' scenes

After family and friends launched a desperate search, police on Sunday announced that a body had been found believed to be Dean.

While the body has yet to be formally identified, police say they believe it is Dean.

“Following extensive police enquiries a body was found in the Moscow Mill Street area around 2.25pm today (Sunday, May 9)," Lancashire Police said in a statement.

“While the body has yet to be formally identified, it is believed to be Mr Dean. His family have been informed and our thoughts are with them at this time.

“The death is not being treated as suspicious and a post-mortem examination will take place in due course.

“We would like to thank everyone who assisted during the search for James.”

Police, pictured here in the UK.
Lancashire Police have found a body believed to be James Dean. (File photo - EDMOND TERAKOPIAN/AFP via Getty Images)

Football world in shock over tragedy

A 6-foot-3 striker, Dean began his career at Great Harwood Town before playing at Clitheroe, Nortwich Victoria and Stalybridge Celtic.

After moving to Bury in 2007, James made four Football League appearances.

Tributes have been flooding in on social media.

"We're absolutely devastated by this afternoon's news - the thoughts of everyone connected with the club are with James Dean's family & friends," Chorley Town wrote on Twitter.

Stalybridge Celtic tweeted: "Our thoughts are with the family and friends of former Celtic player James Dean. Rest in peace, James."

Padiham Football club wrote: "Simply the worst news to be heard. Rest in Peace Deano."

While Ashton Town AFC posted: "Everyone at Ashton Town is extremely saddened to hear about the passing of James Dean.

"Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this very difficult time."

Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.

Click here to sign up to our newsletter for all the latest and breaking stories from Australia and around the world.