Human remains discovered in a canyon in Grand County, Utah, have been identified as those of a Texas woman who went missing with her husband while exploring an area in Moab last weekend, according to authorities.
The Grand County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the remains discovered on July 22, 2024, have been identified as Maranda Ankofski. The Office of the Medical Examiner made the identification.
The couple, Maranda and Ray, were exploring the Steel Bender Off Road Trail area in Moab before they went missing. They were last heard from before a thunderstorm struck the Moab area on July 19, triggering flash flooding that trapped multiple hikers in the area.
At least 20 stranded hikers were rescued from Grand Staff Canyon in a six-hour operation conducted by the Grand County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue team.
After the couple was reported missing, officials launched a search and rescue operation. The couple's UTV was found in the Steel Bender Trail area, severely damaged and likely swept away in the flash flooding during the storm.
Chief Deputy Mike Palmer mentioned that the UTV was pushed down the wash and off a waterfall by the flood, scattering the couple's tools and belongings over a three-mile area in the canyon.
The Grand County Sheriff’s Office expressed its deepest condolences to Maranda Ankofski’s family and friends during this difficult time. They also acknowledged the impact this news may have on the community and committed to providing updates as more information becomes available.
