Overview
- Shields' body, which hikers found April 9 in Los Padres National Forest near Big Sur, was recovered the next day with CHP air support due to steep terrain.
- The Monterey County Sheriff's Office identified the victim as 37-year-old Joanna Ruth Shields of Carlsbad and labeled the case a suspicious death.
- An autopsy has been completed, and the coroner said the cause and manner of death remain pending toxicology results.
- Witnesses reported she was naked and face down in water, with markings on her neck and a large gash on her head.
- Hikers told authorities they encountered a man who said he was her friend, and no suspects or arrests have been announced.