Hiking Influencer Found Dead in Scottsdale, Arizona

Categories: Arizona Breaking NewsArizona State News

A peaceful hiking trail in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, symbolizing the joys of nature and exploration.

News Summary

Hannah Moody, a 31-year-old hiking influencer, was found dead near the McDowell Sonoran Preserve in Scottsdale, Arizona. Her body was discovered over a day after she was last seen, with no foul play suspected. Friends reported her missing when they hadn’t heard from her, and police located her vehicle parked at the trailhead. As an investigation continues, her death serves as a reminder of the safety risks associated with solo hiking.

Arizona – Hannah Moody, a 31-year-old hiking influencer, was found dead near a trailhead parking lot at the McDowell Sonoran Preserve in Scottsdale, Arizona. Her body was discovered by search crews on Thursday, more than a day after she was last seen. The Scottsdale Police Department confirmed the discovery, stating there were no signs of foul play.

Moody’s family has expressed their heartbreak, with her brother Joel describing the situation as strikingly unfair. Friends reported her missing around 8 p.m. on Wednesday after they had not heard from her. She was last seen at the Gateway Trailhead area of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve on the morning of May 21, before vanishing without a trace.

Shortly after her friends reported her missing, police located her vehicle parked at the trailhead parking lot. Initial ground and air search efforts were called off around midnight but resumed the following day with increased resources from the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. Search crews eventually found her body approximately 600 yards off-trail from the parking lot.

Investigators have stated that they are conducting an active investigation to understand the circumstances surrounding her death. The cause of death will be determined by the Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office, but no further details have been released at this time.

Moody was known for her vibrant online presence, sharing her hiking adventures and uplifting messages with nearly 50,000 Instagram followers. Just days before her disappearance, she posted a video discussing her new job, a pay cut, and the importance of focusing on the positive aspects of life. Friends have described her as someone who loved the outdoors, was an experienced hiker, and well-prepared for her adventures.

Her brother, Joel Moody, characterized her as a fierce competitor who spent her life searching for a sense of belonging and home. In her social media posts, Moody often expressed gratitude for the opportunity to hike at sunset, highlighting her deep appreciation for nature.

The community has since extended condolences to those affected by Hannah’s tragic death. Many who knew her have shared their memories and sentiments online, reflecting on her impact as a friend and influencer. The search efforts, initially focused on locating her, have transitioned into a somber acknowledgment of the loss felt by her family and friends.

As the investigation continues, the Scottsdale Police Department is encouraging anyone with information about Moody’s final days to come forward. The incident has highlighted the risks associated with outdoor activities, particularly for those who venture into nature alone. Moody’s passing serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of hiking and the importance of safety while enjoying the outdoors.

While the cause of her death remains uncertain pending examination, the loss of Hannah Moody resonates deeply within the hiking community and beyond, reinforcing a shared appreciation for the beauty of nature she cherished and the connections formed through shared adventures.