The body of Ian Thomas Treger, a 29-year-old English teacher from Virginia, has been found in Peru, his family confirmed. Treger had been hiking in the region and was last heard from on May 13.

His mother, Michelle Ludwig, alerted authorities when she had not heard from him for nearly two weeks. Treger, an experienced hiker who had tackled challenging trails globally, embarked on a solo expedition to climb Nevado Ausangate, Peru's fifth-highest mountain.

Peruvian authorities with the High Mountain Police discovered the remains on June 30 near a small stream, north of the planned hiking trail in the Pitumarca district of the Cusco province. The body was found in an advanced state of decomposition, according to officials. Treger's backpack, camera gear, wallet, and phone were found near the remains, and foul play has been ruled out. Authorities are investigating the incident, but have suggested it may have been a hiking accident.

Ludwig traveled to Peru to join the search efforts for her son. "A shepherd who works the fields with his alpacas found my son yesterday," Ludwig told the Daily Mail. "The police told us it was a hiking accident and that he was by himself. I don't understand how this could've happened. He was a very capable hiker and is used to high-altitude trails."

Treger, who grew up in Effinger, Virginia, was an Eagle Scout and obtained a Wilderness First Aid certification while attending Washington and Lee University. His family described him as having a deep curiosity about the world, a passion for learning about new cultures and history, and a quick wit.

He had traveled to Peru after finishing his teaching year at Ecuador's Galápagos Language Academy, reportedly wanting to experience Jubilee Month, a celebration in Cusco. Treger's last social media post showed him in Ecuador on April 16, and his mother noted his extensive travel experience, including hikes in Tasmania and across the Australian outback, and prior experience at high altitudes in Ecuador.

"It is with profound sadness that we share that Ian’s body has been found in Peru," the family said in a statement. "Our hearts are broken, and we are still absorbing this devastating loss. We want to extend our deepest gratitude to the U.S. and Peruvian authorities who worked tirelessly on this search, as well as to the volunteers who gave their time, energy, and compassion in the effort to bring Ian home."

The family is currently making arrangements to bring Treger's remains back to the United States.