Human remains discovered in a canyon in Grand County, Utah, have been identified as those of a Texas woman who disappeared with her husband while exploring an area of Moab last weekend, authorities said.
The Grand County Sheriff’s Office said the medical examiner’s office confirmed that the remains discovered in the canyon on July 22, 2024, have been identified as those of Maranda Ankofski.
“The Grand County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of (Maranda) Ankofski during this difficult time,” the sheriff’s office said in a news release. “We understand the profound impact this news may have on the community and are committed to providing updates as more information becomes available.”
Maranda and her husband Ray were exploring the Steel Bender Off Road trail area in Moab, the couple’s family told FOX 13 in Salt Lake City. They were last heard from before a storm hit the Moab area on July 19.
MISSING UTAH COUPLE MAY HAVE BEEN SUCKING AWAY BY FLOOD RUNNING WHILE EXPLORING TRAIL IN UTV
Ankofskis’ utility vehicle was found damaged and his belongings strewn across a 3-mile stretch of canyon, authorities said. (Ankofski family via KSTU)
The storm caused flash flooding that trapped many hikers in the area. The Grand County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue said at least 20 stranded hikers were rescued from the Grand Canyon during a six-hour operation.
Authorities launched a search and rescue operation after the couple was reported missing Monday. The Grand County Sheriff’s Office said a utility vehicle belonging to the couple was located in the area of Steel Bender Trail.
BODY FOUND NEAR SAN DIEGO TRAIL WHERE MISSING HIKER WAS SEPARATED FROM GROUP DURING HEAT WAVE
Ray and Maranda Ankofski were reported missing Monday after a storm hit the Moab area where they had taken their UTV on a trail. (Ankofski family via KSTU)
Deputy Chief Mike Palmer told FOX13 the UTV was likely swept away by flash flooding during the storm and was severely damaged.
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“It looks like probably once the flood hit the utility vehicle, we think about three-quarters to a mile, pushed it into the ditch and out of the waterfall,” Palmer said. “Their tools and belongings are scattered over a three-mile area in that canyon.”
Stephen Sorace of Fox News Digital contributed to this report.
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