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What happened to James Dean? Body of missing footballer, 35, found in park 4 days after he disappeared

'The death is not being treated as suspicious and a post-mortem examination will take place in due course,' said police

Former Chorley and Bury FC player James Dean was last seen in the Orchard Drive area of Oswaldtwistle, England at around midnight on Wednesday, May 5. After searching for four days, the police department discovered a dead body in the Moscow Mill Street area around 2.25 pm on Sunday, May 9. While the body has yet to be formally identified, it is believed to be Dean's. A police spokesman said: "His family has been informed and our thoughts are with them at this time."

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Who was James Dean?

Dean, born in Blackburn, started his football career with Lancashire side Great Harwood Town. He also played for Chorley, Harrogate and FC Halifax Town. As part of his prolific career, he played for some of the region's biggest non-League clubs and had several promotions on his resume.

He scored 60 goals in 130 appearances for Chorley, many in the Vanarama National League North. Dean who was 6`3” tall and the team's forward also played for Altrincham, Warrington Town, Ashton United, AFC Fylde and Stalybridge Celtic.

What happened to James Dean?

A spokesperson for Lancashire Police said: "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."

The local community had banded together to search for the former forward and a body fitting his profile was found on Sunday afternoon on May 9. Dean, who was only 35 years old, was last seen alive at midnight on Wednesday, May 5.

Tributes pour in

Ashton Town AFC tweeted, "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." Ollie Bayliss wrote: "Heartbreaking news regarding former Chorley, Altrincham & Halifax Town striker James Dean. My thoughts are with his friends & family"

Adam Jones remembered him saying: "One of the toughest opponents I've ever played against, but off the pitch a true gent..Non League Football has lost a legend today..RIP Deano." While another one tweeted, "James Dean, a true Town legend. Thank you for the amazing memories. Can't believe the news. Thoughts are with his family and friends right now. RIP Deano "

Calling it a "sad day" another one said, "Sad sad day! A non league legend!Some great memories made with the big fella...tearing Stourbridge apart me and you up top...to throwing your astroturf trainers in the bin at Buxton! Rest easy mate lots of love  #RIPDEANO" While one tweeted: "Very sad news coming out about former @FCHTOnline striker James Dean. Very fond memories of watching him help the club recover and get back to the top of the non league ladder. RIP Deano."