The investigation into the death of a 37-year-old California hiker found in a remote wilderness area earlier this year has concluded, with the cause of death determined to be complications of alcohol withdrawal.
Joanna Ruth Shields died of probable alcohol withdrawal seizures due to chronic alcohol use disorder, according to the results of the investigation.
The incident occurred on April 9, near Sykes Hot Springs along the Pine Ridge Trail in Los Padres National Forest, where Shields' body was discovered.
Initially, the case was treated as suspicious due to the presence of a head wound and marks on her neck, but an autopsy and forensic examination found no evidence of foul play.
It was determined that the laceration above Shields' left eye was superficial and did not contribute to her death, while the marks on her neck were caused by postmortem insect activity.
The investigation also found that Shields had a history of bipolar disorder and alcohol use disorder, and her mental health had declined in the months leading up to her death after she stopped taking prescribed psychiatric medication.
Family members reported that Shields had previously experienced alcohol withdrawal seizures before becoming sober, and the coroner's report noted that these seizures likely contributed to her death.
The findings of the investigation have been met with sadness and relief by the authorities, who hope that the information will provide some measure of peace and closure for Shields' loved ones.
The Monterey County Sheriff-Coroner expressed her condolences to Shields' family and loved ones, saying that the investigation's findings provide a measure of comfort after a difficult period.
