Man, 78, Found Dead on Hiking Trail Days After His Car Was Discovered Abandoned in Parking Lot Nearby

**Body of Missing Hiker Found at South Mountain Park**

Authorities have confirmed the identification of a body recovered from South Mountain Park in Arizona as belonging to 78-year-old Michael Jules Goldberg, reported missing earlier this month. The discovery occurred days after his vehicle was found abandoned in the park’s parking lot.

On June 12, park rangers at South Mountain Park noticed an unoccupied car in the parking lot. The vehicle remained there overnight and was subsequently tagged for towing the next morning after no owner was located. The vehicle was registered to a man living in Tempe.

Attempts to contact Goldberg at his home proved unsuccessful. This led the Tempe police to file a missing person report. An investigation revealed that Goldberg was known to frequently hike in the vicinity of South Mountain Park, prompting the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) to initiate a search of the area on June 15.

On June 16, search and rescue teams made a significant breakthrough. At approximately 2 p.m. local time, they discovered Goldberg’s body while scouring the neighbourhood of the Mormon Trailhead within the park. The site was known for its hiking trails and scenic views, making the investigation especially poignant for the local community.

The Office of the Medical Examiner subsequently took charge of the body. Initial reports from police suggested Goldberg may have succumbed to a medical event, and no immediate signs of foul play were detected during the preliminary investigation.

In light of this tragic incident, the Phoenix Police Department extended their condolences to the family and friends of Goldberg. Their investigation into the circumstances surrounding his disappearance and subsequent death remains ongoing as officials continue to examine the events leading up to this heart-wrenching loss.

This unfortunate incident is not the first of its kind at South Mountain Park. Just days prior, on June 5, emergency services were called to assist another hiker who suffered severe injuries after falling. The victim, identified as 31-year-old Gilbert Ortiz, fell approximately 40 feet while hiking with his brother. Despite the efforts of rescue crews, Ortiz was later pronounced dead after being transported to a hospital in extremely critical condition.

The recent series of hiking-related incidents highlights the importance of safety awareness while undertaking outdoor activities, especially in more treacherous areas. Local authorities recommend that hikers inform someone of their expected route and estimated return time, ensuring that help can be summoned promptly in the event of an emergency.

As the community reflects on this sorrowful series of events, the authorities continue to encourage outdoor enthusiasts to stay vigilant and prepared while enjoying the natural beauty of Arizona’s parks and trails.