Joseph Derbisz death: what happened to missing Birmingham University student - and where was body found?

A body has been found in the search for missing Birmingham University student Joseph Derbisz.

Where was Joseph Derbisz last seen?

The third year student was last seen in the early hours of Sunday morning (27 March) following a night out.

Joseph left ‘Fab n Fresh’ nightclub, which is located at the University of Birmingham campus, at around 3.30am.

It’s understood Joseph  was out with friends before they separated in Selly Oak, where he lived.

West Midlands Police launched an investigation following Joseph’s disappearance.

Where was Joseph’s body found?

The body was found off Edgbaston Park Road in Birmingham shortly after midday on Monday, 28 March.

Campus security made the discovery in a location which was around 250 metres away from the university’s Guild of Students.

Joseph’s remains were discovered more than 24 hours after he was last seen near a car park used as a shortcut by students.

Formal identification of the body has yet to take place, however West Midlands Police have confirmed that Joseph’s family has been informed.

Following the discovery of the body yesterday, a West Midlands Police spokesman said: “Officers searching for missing Joseph Derbisz have sadly found the body of a man off Edgbaston Park Road, Birmingham.

“The 21-year-old was last seen in the early hours of yesterday.

“Although formal identification has yet to take place, Joseph’s family have been informed.”

West Midlands Police confirmed they are not treating the death as suspicious.

The spokesperson said: “We are not treating the death as suspicious and our sympathies remain with his family.”

What has the University of Birmingham said?

The University of Birmingham issued a statement on Monday (28 March) following the discovery of the body.

They have been left “absolutely devastated” by the news and have said that their thoughts are with Joseph’s friends and family.

A University of Birmingham spokesperson said: “We are absolutely devastated to learn about the death of Joe.

“Our thoughts are with Joe’s family and friends at this very difficult time. We are doing everything we can to support Joe’s friends and family, as well as the wider student and staff community.

“We continue to work with the police as they conduct their enquiries and are unable to comment further at this stage.

“You will see an increased police presence in the area and at the University this afternoon; please feel free to speak with them.

“We encourage any of our students who have been affected by this tragedy to contact the confidential listening and support service, UB Heard, or your Wellbeing Officer.”

Tributes have since been paid to Joseph at the University of Birmingham

The spokesperson added: “For any of our staff who are affected, we encourage you to contact your HR representative or access our free 24 hours support service: Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and Citizen’s Advice (birmingham.ac.uk)