By Holly Suzanne Courtier, 38, who went missing on October 6 during a solo trip to Zion National Park, has been found “alive and well,” officials announced Sunday. The discovery came after a visitor reported seeing her within the park, prompting an extensive search effort by National Park rangers.
Courtier, who had recently lost her nanny job due to the pandemic, embarked on a road trip to explore American national parks before her disappearance. Her family expressed overwhelming relief upon hearing the news of her safe return. “We are overjoyed that she was found safely today,” her family stated, thanking the rangers and search teams for their relentless efforts.
Daughter Kailey Chambers shared her gratitude, saying, “I will never forget the people who made this miracle possible. She is so loved, and I am so incredibly grateful that God brought her home to me.” Courtier’s sister, Jaime Strong, provided updates via a GoFundMe page, noting that Courtier is “alive and well” but will require medical assistance.
The details surrounding Courtier’s disappearance and subsequent discovery remain limited. The search involved K-9 units, drones, and extensive foot patrols, supported by numerous volunteers. The National Parks Service expressed gratitude to the community for their support throughout the search operation.
Courtier, described as an avid hiker, was last seen taking a shuttle into the park on October 6. She was scheduled to be picked up later that afternoon but did not appear at the designated spot. Investigators found her vehicle outside the park with indications she had taken a backpack for her hike.
Having converted her van into a camper, Courtier had planned to visit various national parks—a dream she pursued after losing her job. Her daughter Kimberly Chambers emphasized, “This was her dream, to see national parks. She lost her job as a nanny due to Covid-19. The family could not afford to keep paying her.”
The circumstances of Courtier’s disappearance and her journey during the 12 days remain under investigation. Updates on her condition and the exact circumstances of her discovery are awaited as she reunites with her family following this harrowing ordeal.
Source CNN
