Greater Manchester Police have confirmed the discovery of a body during the ongoing search for Darren Orme, a 54-year-old Wigan Athletic fan who went missing earlier this month. Officers found the body in the River Douglas, near Stadium Way in Wigan, close to the Wigan Athletic Football Club ground.
The discovery was made on Monday, March 24. Although formal identification has not yet been completed, Mr. Orme’s family has been notified of the tragic discovery and is currently receiving support from specialist officers. Authorities have stated that the death is not being treated as suspicious and inquiries are ongoing to finalize the identification process.
Timeline of Events
Mr. Orme was last seen around 9 pm on Wednesday, March 5, near the junction of Woodhouse Lane and Beech Hill Lane in Standish, Wigan. His sudden disappearance sparked a large-scale search operation involving specialist search advisors, police dogs, and underwater teams. Search efforts focused on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and the River Douglas, close to where Mr. Orme was last spotted.
The local community rallied behind the search efforts, with hundreds of volunteers participating in searches and distributing missing person posters. Support also came from the football community, with Wigan Athletic manager Ryan Lowe taking time during a pre-match press conference to hold up one of the missing posters and express solidarity with Mr. Orme’s family.
“We’re thinking of Darren’s family, and we’re really behind the campaign to get him home safe and sound. Hopefully, he can get back to the Brick very soon to watch his beloved Wigan,” said Mr. Lowe.
Community Efforts and Search Campaign
Mr. Orme’s disappearance attracted a significant amount of attention and support from both the local community and the broader football community. Posters, social media campaigns, and public appeals were organized to generate information about his whereabouts.
Search parties diligently covered various locations throughout Wigan and beyond, responding to any potential sightings or clues. Despite the extensive search operation, no substantial leads emerged until the discovery of the body near Stadium Way.
Police Statement and Investigation Status
Greater Manchester Police released a statement today:
“Officers searching for missing Darren Orme have sadly located a body in the Stadium Way area of Wigan. While formal identification has not yet taken place, Darren’s family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers at this time. There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances and enquiries are currently ongoing. Thank you to everyone who has shared our appeals over the last few weeks.”
The investigation continues to ensure that all procedures are completed thoroughly. No further details have been released, but the police have expressed their appreciation for the community’s support throughout the search efforts.
Public Response and Tributes
Mr. Orme’s passion for Wigan Athletic Football Club and his regular attendance at matches earned him recognition within the local fan community. His disappearance deeply affected friends, family, and fellow supporters who all hoped for his safe return.
Numerous tributes have begun to appear online, with many Wigan Athletic fans and local residents expressing their condolences and support for Mr. Orme’s family during this incredibly difficult time.
