Monterey County Sheriff’s Office confirms missing hiker in Carmel Valley found dead
CARMEL VALLEY, Calif. (KION-TV) -- UPDATE ON MARCH 25, 2024 AT 1:20 PM- The Monterey County Sheriff's Office confirms the search for a missing hiker in Carmel Valley has ended in tragedy. 30-year-old Caroline Meister was found dead.
According to the Sheriff's Office, crews found Meister's body at the bottom of a waterfall around 10:45 a.m.
This was during a high angle aerial rescue operation off a horse pasture trail.
According to the Sheriff's Office, no foul play is suspected at this time.
Investigators say the Coroner's Office will look into the specific cause of death.
ORIGINAL STORY
The Monterey County Sheriff's Office is looking for a 30-year-old hiker who has not been seen since going on a hike on Monday morning.
Deputies said that 30-year-old Caroline Meister went on a hike around 11 a.m. on Monday morning. Meister was seen leaving the Tassajara Zen Mountain Center on 39171 Tassajara Road in Carmel Valley.
The Sheriff's Office confirmed that Meister has been a resident for over two years.
Deputies said that Meister told staff members she was going on a hiking trail that loops around the Zen Center. Investigators said that there was a mention of Meister was hiking the "Windcave Trail,"
The Sheriff's Office said she was only carrying snacks for the day and was not equipped for an overnight stay.
Deputies said Meister was reported missing on Monday night around 11:27 p.m.
The Monterey County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue Team along with a California Highway Patrol helicopter are searching for Meister.
"We're planning on searching through the weekend and know weather is coming in," Commander Andy Rosas with the Monterey County Sheriff's Office said. "We have teams and assistance from statewide teams who are specifically trained to search and rescue missions in this kind of weather."
Rosas said they are considering this a Search and Rescue effort for Meister.
People are being asked not to come and help with the search saying it could hinder some of the heat sensing technology agencies are using to find Meister.
Deputies describe Meister as 5"6' weighing about 150 pounds. She has brown wavy hair which was last seen pulled up. She was last seen wearing teal-colored boots and carrying a blue bag.
If you have seen her hiking in the area, you are asked to contact the Monterey County Sheriff's Office at 831-755-5111.
