Scottsdale Hiker Hannah Moody Death Ruled Accidental Heat Exposure

Hannah Moody, a 31-year-old avid hiker and social media influencer, was found dead on May 22 near the Gateway Trailhead in Scottsdale's McDowell Sonoran Preserve after being reported missing the previous day. The Maricopa County Medical Examiner determined her death was accidental and primarily caused by environmental heat exposure, with no signs of foul play reported by Scottsdale Police. Moody’s body was located about 600 yards from the trailhead parking lot, and authorities noted the temperature on the day of her hike reached 102 degrees. Friends and family honored her memory with a sunrise hike, and the incident has contributed to growing concerns about the region's high number of heat-related deaths in 2024. Moody was remembered by loved ones as a caring, free-spirited person who inspired many with her passion for fitness and nature. Community groups have since urged caution when hiking in Arizona’s extreme heat and encouraged commemorative activities in her honor.