Remains of missing hiker found in Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge identified

Human remains found by a hiker on July 14 in Charon Garden’s Wilderness Area of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge have been identified as missing person Eskil Mjaaseth, Norman.

The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge announced on July 15 that the Charon’s Garden Wilderness Area, Post/Oak Treasure Lake parking area, Sunset Picnic Area, and the Elk Mountain would all be closed to investigate human remains found near Charon’s Garden. The next day the investigation was closed and those areas were reopened.

On Friday, it was confirmed in a statement from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that the remains found in Charon’s Garden was that of Mjaaseth.

The statement reads: “On Sunday, July 14, Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge received notice of human remains in the Charon’s Garden Wilderness Area. The incident was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Division of Refuge Law Enforcement in coordination with our partner law enforcement agencies. The individual has since been positively identified as Eskil Mjaaseth, who was originally reported to the Refuge as missing on Tuesday June 18th. Our hearts go out to the family. The investigation by our law enforcement officers has been closed as there is no indication of foul play. We are thankful to our staff and partners who have helped with the search efforts.”

Mjaaseth, 23, was one of two missing individuals who have gone missing in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge this summer.

The other missing individual’s is Keith Carlson, 30, Tuttle, who was reported missing May 21. Officials say there is no update on his whereabouts.

A body was reported on July 6 at Quanah Parker Lake by a fisherman. The body found at the lake had no connection to the missing individuals, according to the Comanche County Sheriff’s office.

A spokesperson from the Comanche County Sheriff’s office confirmed on Friday that the body found at Quanah Parker Lake has been identified and the next of kin has been notified. The person, who is from Houston, arrived at the refuge on July 4 and his body was found at Quanah Parker Lake on July 6. The investigation is still open and at this time the cause of death has not been identified.

In their press release regarding the remains found at Charon’s Garden, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge made a statement urging visitors to put safety first.

“The Refuge remains open and is running under normal operations. While extreme heat closures have been rescinded for now, we do ask that all visitors take safety seriously, and follow warm weather hiking guidance. Carry plenty of water, keep your cellphone fully charged, and bring all other safety equipment you may need. Always let someone know where you are hiking, when you arrive, and when you will return,” according to the press release.