THE family of a Frenchay man have described him as a “gift to everyone in his life”.
Police today confirmed that a body found in the River Frome in Eastville on Monday has been formally identified as that of Luis Piovesana, aged 26.
He had been reported missing three days earlier.
In a tribute released by police, Luis’s family said: “Luis was a gift to everyone in his life and was loved by so many people.
“That was made clear by the people who came out to help search for him.
“He was such a sociable and friendly person, was loved by everyone and will be missed by them all.”
Police have also asked people not to spread “unfounded rumours” on social media and to respect the family’s privacy as they grieve.
Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Pete Walker said: “Our thoughts remain wholly with Luis’ family and friends as they continue to process events of the last week.
“I would like to thank them for their support of our investigation and also all of the police officers, members of police staff and our partner agencies who helped us find Luis.
“Our investigation began as soon as Luis was reported missing and has found no evidence to suggest there are any suspicious circumstances that led to Luis’ death, nor links to any other missing person investigation and we too ask for everyone to respect the privacy of his family at this time, while the investigation continues.
“We are really conscious of the impact of speculation, particularly on social media, around Luis’ death and the impact such inaccurate commentary has on his devastated family. We’d urge people to consider the consequences of spreading unfounded rumours especially when there is a grieving family at the heart of this whose lives have been turned upside down over the past week.
“We are also preparing a file for the coroner to will also support with any inquest which will examine the circumstances of Luis’ death.”
Luis, aged 26, was reported missing in the early hours of February 28 after leaving the Jam Jar venue in St Jude’s and getting into a taxi.
He got out of the taxi soon afterwards after leaving a message for his girlfriend, apparently in distress and feeling that he was in danger.
Luis then called police to tell them he was on the M32, and another member of the public also called to report someone on the motorway.
Police went to the scene but were unable to find him.
Officers were joined by family, friends and other volunteers as they searched for Luis over the weekend.
A police spokesperson said: “A significant police operation, supported by Avon and Somerset Search and Rescue and the National Police Air Service, was stood up to try to locate Luis, with police officers, detectives, PCSOs, mounted officers, specialist search officers, and police drone and dive teams involved.”