CARMEL VALLEY, Calif. – Caroline Meister, 30, who was reported missing earlier this week, was tragically discovered deceased near a waterfall in Monterey County’s Ventana Wilderness. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the grim discovery during a news conference held on Friday.

Discovery of Body Confirmed by Authorities

Monterey County Sheriff Tina M. Nieto revealed that search and rescue teams located Meister’s body around 10:45 a.m. at the base of a waterfall near a trail within the Ventana Wilderness. Sadly, Meister was pronounced dead at the scene.

Timeline of Events

Meister, described as an avid hiker by her relatives, embarked on her hike from the Tassajara Zen Mountain Center at approximately 10 a.m. on Monday. Concern arose when she failed to return later that evening, prompting her loved ones to report her missing.

Extensive Search Efforts

Following the report, search and rescue teams initiated extensive efforts to locate Meister. Residents at the Zen center played a pivotal role by providing crucial information about her intended route. Meister had mentioned hiking along the Horse Pasture Trail on Tassajara Road, which led authorities to focus their search in that area.

Cause of Death

Sheriff Nieto stated that, based on available evidence, foul play is not suspected in Meister’s death, indicating that the incident appears to be accidental. However, the final determination regarding the cause of death will be made by the coroner. Nieto noted that Meister’s injuries align with those typically sustained in a fall from a cliff.

Background Information

Meister, who had previously resided in the area for two years, reportedly hailed from a suburb of Chicago.

A Tragic Loss

The discovery of Caroline Meister’s body brings a somber conclusion to the search efforts in the Ventana Wilderness. As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding her untimely death, the community mourns the loss of an avid hiker and beloved individual.

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