Cause of Death Revealed for Father Who Died While Hiking in Maine with Daughter

Cause of Death Determined for Father Who Passed Away While Hiking in Maine with Daughter

Authorities have recently disclosed the cause of death for a father who was discovered deceased on Maine’s highest peak after embarking on a hiking trip with his daughter.

Esther Keiderling, 28, and her father Tim, 58, were reported missing on Tuesday, June 3. The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife revealed that Tim was found deceased the same day, while Esther was found lifeless the following day on Wednesday, June 4.

According to the Maine Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, Tim’s cause of death was attributed to “complications of hypothermia.” In contrast, a medical examiner had confirmed earlier that Esther, 28, perished due to blunt force trauma.

Reports suggest that Esther might have slipped down the rugged terrain with significant force, as her remains were discovered in a snow-covered boulder field below the Cathedral Cut-off Trail amidst challenging weather conditions, including wind gusts of up to 40 miles per hour.

The father and daughter duo, both hailing from Ulster Park, N.Y., had set out from Abol Campground on Mount Katahdin on Sunday, June 1, their last sighting being around 10:15 a.m. local time before beginning their climb.

The Baxter State Park website describes the Katahdin trail as a grueling climb, regardless of the chosen trailhead, taking approximately eight to 12 hours for a round trip. Rangers initiated a search for the pair after locating their vehicle parked at the trailhead.

While Tim’s body was discovered a few hours into the search, the quest for his daughter extended for an additional day. Multiple teams collaborated in the search efforts, involving game wardens, K9 units, and helicopters from various agencies.

Additional support was provided by the Maine Army National Guard, aiding in the transportation of searchers and scanning various terrains from the air. The collaborative efforts underscored the dedication and determination to locate the missing hikers.

The tragic turn of events serves as a reminder of the risks associated with outdoor activities, especially in unpredictable weather conditions. The Keiderling family’s loss has undoubtedly left a void in their community and serves as a poignant reminder to prioritize safety measures while exploring the outdoors.

As the community mourns the untimely demise of Tim and Esther Keiderling, their memory serves as a testament to the importance of preparedness and vigilance when engaging in outdoor adventures. The determination and unity displayed during the search and rescue operation reflect the resilience and compassion within the community during times of adversity.