Santa Clarita, California — The family of a California woman who disappeared while hiking in Costa Rica earlier this month has shared a heartbreaking update, confirming that her body has been recovered after an extensive search effort.
Ashley Phillips, 30, of Santa Clarita, was reported missing on June 3 after she failed to return from a hike near the famous Nauyaca waterfalls in Costa Rica.
Her disappearance occurred during a period of severe weather that brought heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and landslides to the region.
After more than two weeks of searching, authorities located a body on Wednesday, and family members later confirmed it was Phillips.
Family Confirms Tragic Discovery
In an emotional update shared through a GoFundMe page created to support the family, loved ones announced that Ashley had been found.
“With broken hearts, we share the news that Ashley’s body has been found.”
The statement marked a devastating end to a search that drew support from emergency responders, volunteers, and community members in both Costa Rica and California.
Although grieving the loss, family members said they are grateful to finally have answers and the opportunity to bring Ashley home.
“While her family mourns this tragic loss, they find some comfort in knowing she has been found and can now be brought home.”
The family also reflected on the adventurous spirit that defined Ashley’s life.
“Ashley was confident in who God created her to be and lived life with a spirit of adventure.”
Search Efforts Challenged by Dangerous Conditions
Phillips disappeared while exploring an area near the Nauyaca waterfalls, one of Costa Rica’s most popular natural attractions.
At the time, powerful storms moved through the region, causing widespread flooding and landslides that complicated rescue efforts.
Emergency crews and volunteers searched for days, but dangerous weather conditions repeatedly forced teams to suspend operations.
Authorities ultimately located a body more than two weeks after Phillips was reported missing.
According to local reports, the discovery was made by members of the Costa Rican Red Cross approximately 600 meters from an area heavily impacted by landslides and floodwaters.
Her identity was officially confirmed the following day.
Authorities Continue Investigating
Costa Rican officials have not publicly released an official cause of death.
However, earlier reports suggested investigators believed Phillips may have been swept away by rapidly rising floodwaters generated by the storm.
Authorities have indicated that the investigation remains active as officials continue examining the circumstances surrounding her disappearance and death.
The case has drawn attention to the dangers that severe weather can create in remote outdoor destinations, particularly in tropical regions where conditions can change rapidly.
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Remembering Ashley Phillips
Before her disappearance, Phillips had been staying at HOME Farm, a rainforest sanctuary located in Costa Rica’s Diamanté Valley near the Nauyaca waterfalls.
The property is known for its natural setting and sits within dozens of acres of tropical jungle terrain.
Friends and family described Ashley as someone who embraced life, loved nature, and enjoyed exploring new places.
The GoFundMe page established in her honor has raised more than $20,000 to assist with memorial and celebration-of-life arrangements.
Family members said she had a deep appreciation for travel, animals, and the outdoors.
“She loved traveling, spending time in nature, and caring for animals. We continue to lift her family and friends in prayer during this incredibly difficult time.”
As loved ones prepare to bring Ashley home, many are remembering the joy, compassion, and adventurous spirit that defined her life.
Please join in sharing condolences for Ashley Phillips’ family and loved ones during this difficult time.
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