A doctor on a cruise excursion in Alaska has been found dead after going missing during a hike, authorities confirmed. The exact circumstances surrounding her death are still under investigation.
Tragic hike end for cruise passenger in Alaska
Juneau, Alaska – What began as a vacation cruise turned tragic for Dr. Marites Buenafe, a physician from Kentucky. She was reported missing on Tuesday, July 2, after failing to return for the ship’s departure at 1:30 p.m. local time.
The 62-year-old doctor was on a cruise with two family members. On the morning of her disappearance, she texted her sister, stating her intention to hike from Gold Ridge to Gastineau Peak. When she didn’t respond to calls and texts, her family flew back to Juneau to join the search efforts after the ship departed at 1:45 p.m.
Body discovered after a two-day search
Two days later, on the morning of Thursday, July 4, a helicopter from the Alaska Army National Guard located Buenafe’s body approximately 500 meters below the ridge line of Gold Ridge.
Surveillance footage last showed Buenafe at 7:30 a.m. near the Mount Roberts Tramway. She was seen wearing dark clothing, carrying a chestnut brown backpack, and had a dotted neckerchief. Search and rescue teams utilized dogs, drones, and helicopters in the extensive search. Heavy rain and thick clouds on Wednesday evening significantly hampered efforts.
The body was recovered with assistance from the National Guard and helicopter company Temsco.
Austin McDaniel of the Alaska Department of Public Safety cautioned that Alaska’s wilderness can pose unexpected challenges. “Excursions in Alaska’s hinterland can become much more challenging than anticipated, even from simple day trips, if one takes a wrong step or falls,” he said.
The exact cause of death remains undetermined, and an autopsy has been ordered. It’s a stark reminder that even familiar activities like hiking can become perilous, as even hikes in the Alps can be dangerous.
