A deceased woman discovered near Sykes Hot Springs at Ventana Wilderness of Los Padres National Forest in April has been ruled to have died from natural causes, according to the Monterey County Coroner’s Office.
Joanna Ruth Shields, 37, of Carlsbad, was found deceased on April 10, 2026. Her death was initially viewed as suspicious by the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office.
Through forensic analysis and an investigation conducted by the coroner and criminal investigations departments of the sheriff’s office, it was determined that the probable cause of death was alcohol withdrawal seizures due to alcohol use disorder, authorities said.
The detectives partnered with the coroner’s department to analyze all the possible evidence. According to the officials, the ruling was based on the forensic findings, Shields’ health background, and information from her relatives. The investigators also pointed out that there was no indication of a crime committed against the woman.
The body of Shields was discovered by hikers who returned from a two-night adventure trip in the backcountry. One of the hikers, Gabe Holmes, told KSBW 8 that Shields looked pale, with marks on her neck and a head injury.
However, the sheriff’s office confirmed that the coroner has investigated both of the marks. It was determined that the marks were postmortem insects’ actions and did not suggest any strangulation or any criminal activity. The wound on her forehead has been described as a minor injury.
