Hannah Moody has died; Missing Arizona hiker found dead in McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Missing hiker Hannah Moody found dead in McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The Scottsdale community is mourning the heartbreaking death of Hannah Moody, a missing hiker whose body was located by search crews on May 22, 2025. The young woman was last seen on the morning of May 21 in the Gateway Trailhead area of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, where she had reportedly gone for a solo hike. Despite extensive search efforts, including drones and officers on foot, Hannah was tragically found dead less than 48 hours later.
Hannah Moody found dead
This unexpected tragedy has left family, friends, and the Scottsdale community in deep sorrow. Scottsdale Police confirmed that, at this time, there are no signs of foul play and the investigation remains active. They have asked for the community’s help in piecing together what happened during Hannah’s final hours, and are encouraging anyone with relevant information to come forward. Hannah Moody’s disappearance was reported after she failed to return to her vehicle or make contact with family or friends. Those who knew her immediately expressed concern, describing her behavior as responsible and dependable. Her sudden absence was entirely out of character.
What happened to Hannah Moody?
Scottsdale Police and search crews began efforts to locate Hannah late on the night of May 21. By early the next morning, the search intensified, with multiple teams deploying drones, foot patrols, and support personnel across the rugged terrain of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The Preserve, while breathtakingly scenic, presents difficult conditions for rescue teams due to its vast, mountainous landscape and high temperatures. Despite these challenges, authorities and volunteers worked tirelessly to find Hannah.
The search for Hannah Moody drew support and attention from people across the Scottsdale area and beyond. Her photo and description were shared widely on social media, and members of the hiking community joined in to help spread the word. Sadly, despite the collective efforts and hope for a safe return, the outcome was not what anyone had prayed for. News of Hannah’s death has deeply impacted her loved ones and those who followed her story. Scottsdale Police and Hannah’s family are asking for privacy as they grieve and await further updates from the investigation. In an official statement, authorities said:
“Tragically, Hannah’s body was located by search crews. Our hearts go out to her family and friends. This is an active investigation. At this time, there are no signs of foul play. Please respect the family’s privacy. We appreciate everyone’s efforts in helping to locate Hannah.”
The circumstances surrounding Hannah Moody’s disappearance and death remain under investigation. What is known is that she entered the Gateway Trailhead area of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve early on May 21 and did not return. The terrain, while popular for hikers, can be dangerous—especially as temperatures begin to climb in late spring. Dehydration, heat exhaustion, and accidental injury are among the many risks hikers can face in the desert. Scottsdale Police are continuing their investigation and are appealing to the public for any information that might help them understand what happened. They urge anyone who was in the Gateway Trailhead area on May 21 and may have seen Hannah or noticed anything unusual to contact them.
Though her life ended far too soon, Hannah Moody will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, kind heart, and the love she brought to those around her. Her loss is a sobering reminder of the importance of outdoor safety and the unpredictability of nature. As the Scottsdale community reflects on this tragedy, there’s a collective sense of gratitude for the tireless efforts of search and rescue teams, volunteers, and law enforcement who did everything possible to bring Hannah home.
If you have any information regarding Hannah Moody’s final whereabouts or saw anything unusual on the trails near Gateway Trailhead on the morning of May 21, please contact the Scottsdale Police Department immediately. Your information, no matter how small, could assist in closing this painful chapter for her family and the community.
The loss of Hannah Moody is a profound tragedy that resonates beyond Scottsdale. It reminds us of the fragility of life and the importance of community in times of crisis. As her family and friends grieve, we ask the public to continue respecting their privacy and keeping them in your thoughts.
Stay safe, stay vigilant, and never underestimate the power of coming together when someone is in need.