PHOENIX — A 34-year-old hiker was found dead hours after she was reported missing in north Phoenix, authorities said.
Phoenix police said Jessica Christine Lindstrom was found dead Friday evening in the Deem Hills Recreation Area near 51st Drive and West Deem Hills Parkway. She was last seen hiking in the area around 8:30 a.m.
Capt. Scott Douglas with the Phoenix Fire Department said officials started their search using drones and technical rescue teams around noon.
She was found off the trail about five hours into the search.
“The location where she was found is very remote, indiscreet, where it’s very difficult to find her," Douglas said.
Lindstrom's cause of death is under investigation. Authorities said they do not suspect foul play.
Douglas said preliminary information suggests Lindstrom was overcome by the heat while hiking.
“Unfortunately, Ms. Lindstrom was in town from Oregon, where it doesn’t get this hot. She went for a hike, and at this time, it’s a good reminder for all of us to look at how hot and dangerous these desert conditions can be," Douglas said.
Dozens of people joined a search party Friday evening.
“I do hike the mountain a lot," Neil Brooks told 12News. "I figured I’d go hike the back side and hope I’d find something.”
Brooks said he doesn't find the mountain a difficult hike but added that any hike could be dangerous in this heat.
"The backside (of the mountain) can be very remote. So, you know, if somebody was to twist their ankle or something happen like that on the backside, yeah, you can be in some big trouble," Brooks said.
Douglas said no one else was injured during the search.
The fire department reminds people to avoid being outside in the hot weather, especially during an excessive heat warning.
Lindstrom's family has started a GoFundMe to pay for her funeral expenses. If you'd like to help, you can click here to donate.
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