Maureen Kelly Still Missing After Nude 'Spiritual Quest,' Authorities Fear Hypothermia Could Set In
Maureen Kelly, 19, decided to go on a "spiritual quest" wearing only a fanny pack. Authorities labeled the teen "missing" and continue to search for her in the forests of Washington.
Kelly went missing on Sunday after she failed to return from her trek into the woods. Authorities are concerned that she is unprepared to deal with the elements, given that she is nude and has only a small knife and compass with her. Thankfully the weather has been rather mild.
"She had talked about doing this spiritual quest for evidently quite some time. The folks that she was with, they felt that this was something she needed to do," Undersheriff Dave Cox told ABC News.
"Twelve 4x4 teams searched the area again today and we were unable to locate Ms. Kelly," Sheriff Dave Brown told the press. "They found nothing that is related to this search and rescue mission. Maureen Kelly, of Vancouver, was reported missing from Canyon Creek Campground shortly after midnight Monday when she failed to return from a 'spiritual quest.'"
"It's a rough remote area with a lot of timber and brush," Cox added. "It's going to be a tough go for her, especially with no shoes."
Unfortunately, the weather is not cooperating with rescuers. A cloud cover moved in, preventing helicopters from scanning the area. As the weather continues to deteriorate, authorities are more concerned about Kelly's wellbeing and ability to survive.
"As this progresses, we get a little more concerned. Especially because she doesn't have any clothing, hypothermia can set in a lot quicker," Cox explained.
Police brought in dogs in order to help track Kelly's scent and hopefully locate the teen.
"Where she entered the creek is amazingly steep. It's called Canyon Creek Campground for a reason," Sharon Ward of Pacific Crest Search Dogs, told KPTV. "It's very, very steep. So how she got down there barefoot is a wonder, and how she came up out of the bottom is a wonder."
