July 24, 2026 – Monterey County Sheriff's Office officials report that the Monterey County Sheriff-Coroner Tina Nieto has 
released the Coroner’s findings following the death investigation involving Joanna Ruth Shields, 37, of Carlsbad, California, whose body was recovered from the Sykes Hot Springs area within the Ventana Wilderness of the Los Padres National Forest on April 10, 2026.
A comprehensive forensic examination and investigation was conducted by the Monterey County Sheriff's Office Coroner and Criminal detective units. The manner of death has been determined to be “Natural.” The cause of death has been determined to be “Probable alcohol withdrawal seizures due to chronic alcohol use disorder.”
Throughout the course of the investigation, detectives worked closely with the Coroner's Office to thoroughly examine all available evidence surrounding Ms. Shields' death. The manner and cause of death were determined through the forensic examination, a reliable medical and health history, and information obtained from Ms. Shields' family during the investigation.
Investigators found no evidence during the forensic examination or throughout the investigation to indicate that Ms. Shields was the victim of a crime.
During the initial stages of the investigation, media reports referenced witness accounts describing possible strangulation marks and an injury to Ms. Shields' forehead. As is common in death investigations, observations made prior to a forensic examination are considered preliminary and require scientific evaluation. The Coroner’s examination determined that the markings observed on Ms. Shields' body were consistent with “postmortem insect activity” and were not evidence of strangulation or any criminal act. Additionally, the injury observed on her forehead was determined to be “superficial” and was not identified as a contributing factor in her death.
As part of the investigation, detectives contacted the individual who was reportedly with Ms. Shields prior to her death. That individual was fully cooperative with investigators throughout the investigation. Based on the results of the investigation and the findings of the forensic examination, no further investigative action will be taken.
Sheriff-Coroner Tina Nieto released the following statement:
"Our thoughts and prayers remain with Joanna's family and loved ones. We hope these findings provide them with some measure of peace and closure after several difficult months. I also want to thank our detectives, Coroner's staff, our forensic pathologist, and our public safety partners for their professionalism, compassion, and dedication to conducting a thorough investigation and providing Joanna's family with the answers they deserved."
The Monterey County Sheriff's Office extends its sincere condolences to the family and friends of Joanna Ruth Shields.
Source: Monterey County Sheriff's Office
