(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — A 30-year-old woman formerly from River Forest has been found dead in a wilderness area in Carmel Valley in central California — four days after she was reported missing.
Caroline Meister, who was described as a “very experienced hiker” by her parents and friends, had gone out alone for a day hike on Monday.
When she didn’t return, she was reported missing, and a search started the next morning. Her body was found Friday.
“I hate endings like this, obviously,” said Monterey County Sheriff Tina Nieto.
Nieto said Meister’s body was found at the bottom of a waterfall. She told reporters that Meister’s injuries were “consistent with falling down a cliff.”
“We’re going to wait until after the coroner’s investigation to determine the cause of death,” the sheriff said. “We do not suspect foul play.”
More than 100 people were involved in the search.
Meister’s parents, who had gone to the search area, thanked all of those who tried to find their daughter.
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