A tragic incident occurred on Monday morning when a 40-year-old California woman fell to her death while hiking with her husband and 1-year-old child on Bear Mountain in Sedona, Arizona. Zaynab Joseph was found seriously injured after a group of hikers heard yelling and called 911 for help.
Despite efforts to rescue her, Joseph succumbed to her injuries shortly after being reached by a fellow hiker. Her husband and toddler were safely flown off the mountain while authorities recovered her body.
The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the incident, interviewing multiple hikers who were on the mountain that day. The trail where the accident occurred, Bear Mountain Trail, is known for being strenuous, unshaded, steep, and challenging in certain areas, climbing over 1,800 feet in elevation over a 2.3-mile trek.
Joseph and her family, who were visiting Sedona and staying at an Airbnb, have received an outpouring of support and condolences from friends and family. Tributes on social media describe her as having a 'heart of gold' and being deeply cherished by those who knew her.
As the investigation continues, authorities have not provided any updates on the case but have assured the public that more information will be shared as it becomes available. This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with hiking in challenging terrains and the importance of safety precautions while enjoying outdoor activities.
