Suspicious Death in Ventana Wilderness
Key Questions
Who was Joanna Shields and where was her body found?
Joanna Shields was a 37-year-old woman from Carlsbad. Her body was discovered at Sykes Hot Springs in the Ventana Wilderness near Big Sur.
Why is Joanna Shields' death being treated as suspicious?
Her body had neck markings, prompting authorities to treat the death as suspicious. Toxicology results are pending to determine the cause.
What actions are authorities taking in the investigation?
A tip line is active for information. The case highlights risks in the backcountry, with friends and colleagues remembering Shields as a skater.
Body of Joanna Shields, 37 Carlsbad, at Sykes Hot Springs with neck markings; treated suspicious, tox pending, tip line active. Highlights backcountry risks.
Sources (2)
Updated Apr 17, 2026