The death of Joanna Ruth Shields, a 37-year-old hiker found in a remote area of Big Sur earlier this year, has been ruled natural. The Monterey County Sheriff's Office determined that Shields died from "probable alcohol withdrawal seizures due to chronic alcohol use disorder."
Shields' remains were discovered on April 9 near Sykes Hot Springs along the Pine Ridge Trail in Los Padres National Forest. Investigators initially treated the case as suspicious due to the unknown cause of death and because hikers who found her reported seeing a head wound and marks on her neck. However, an autopsy and subsequent investigation found no evidence that Shields was the victim of a crime.
The sheriff's office stated that a laceration above her left eye was superficial and did not contribute to her death. Marks on her neck were determined to be the result of postmortem insect activity, and no signs of strangulation were found. Shields was found near a creek wearing a black sports bra, with her clothing, sandals, and a water bottle nearby.
According to family members who spoke with investigators, Shields had a history of bipolar disorder and alcohol use disorder. Her mental health had reportedly declined in the months leading up to her death after she stopped taking prescribed psychiatric medication. Her sister also informed investigators that Shields had previously experienced alcohol withdrawal seizures before achieving sobriety.
The Monterey County Sheriff-Coroner's office stated that they hope these findings offer closure to Shields' family and loved ones.