Bristol: Police have discovered a body during the search for missing 26-year-old Luis Piovesana in Bristol.
Luis disappeared early Friday morning and was last seen on CCTV at Eastgate Retail Park around 3 a.m.
His sister, Lubjana Piovesana, a Team GB judo athlete, had publicly appealed for help in locating him.
He had gone missing without his phone or money, raising serious concerns for his safety.
More than 100 police officers and family members from Birmingham joined the search efforts.
Body Discovered
Avon and Somerset Police confirmed a body was found in the River Frome in Eastville around 6 p.m. Monday.
Formal identification is pending, but police have updated Luis’ family on the discovery.
Authorities expressed condolences and assured the family is receiving specialist support.
Luis had taken a taxi to Eastgate Retail Park from Little Ann Street before vanishing.
Search efforts included mounted officers, police drones, and divers combing the River Frome near the M32.
Family’s Tribute
Lubjana Piovesana invited people to join a memorial walk in Luis’ honor.
She planned a gathering at Purdown near the telephone tower, a place special to Luis.
She asked attendees to meet at the Lindsay Road car park to walk together.
Flowers would be laid in tribute, and everyone was welcome to attend the walk.
Lubjana shared that the family wants to avoid speculation regarding the circumstances of Luis’ death.
Ongoing Investigation
Police confirmed an active investigation is underway into the circumstances of his passing.
Lubjana clarified that Luis did not take his own life, addressing potential rumors.
Authorities have not released further details while inquiries continue.
The family remains devastated and is asking for privacy during this painful time.
Community members have expressed sympathy and support for the grieving family.
Search Efforts
Luis’ disappearance led to extensive searches involving various police resources.
Officers on horseback scoured the area while drones provided aerial surveillance.
Divers thoroughly searched the River Frome, where the body was later found.
Friends and family distributed missing person flyers and urged the public for information.
Despite relentless efforts, the search ended tragically with Monday’s discovery.
Community Support
Tributes poured in from friends and well-wishers expressing sorrow over Luis’ passing.
Supporters praised Lubjana for her strength and for rallying people in Luis’ memory.
Local residents have been leaving flowers and messages at the memorial site.
Many have shared memories of Luis, describing him as kind and full of life.
Lubjana thanked everyone for their love and support during this heartbreaking time.
