In a chilling turn of events, a hiker exploring the remote terrains of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains stumbled upon a scene straight out of a horror film. An abandoned campsite near the secluded Gold Creek Campsite unveiled a grim discovery that has left the community in shock.
A Haunting Find
While the serene landscapes of the Rocky Mountains are a haven for nature enthusiasts, the hiker was unprepared for the eerie sight that awaited them. Amidst the remnants of a campsite, they discovered a severely decomposed body. Gunnison County Coroner Michael Barnes detailed the scene, stating,
“One body was found outside a tent with two more zipped inside.”
The hiker promptly alerted the Gunnison County Sheriff’s Office, leading to a more extensive investigation.
The Mystery Deepens
Upon further inspection, investigators uncovered two additional heavily decomposed bodies at the site. The state of the remains suggested they had been there for a significant duration.
Gunnison County Undersherrif Josh Ashe commented on the timeline, noting, “The bodies had likely been there for a ‘substantial period of time’.”
Piecing Together the Story
The identities of the deceased were later confirmed as two adult sisters, Christine Vance, 41, and Rebecca Vance, 42, along with Rebecca’s 14-year-old son.
The circumstances surrounding their deaths remain shrouded in mystery.
However, Coroner Barnes provided some insights, revealing,
“At this point it appears that these three individuals began long-term camping at the location near Gold Creek Campground in (approximately) mid-late July last Summer 2022 and attempted to stay through the winter.”
Possible Causes
While foul play has been ruled out, the exact cause of their tragic end remains uncertain. Barnes speculated on potential factors, suggesting, “Potentially malnutrition and ‘exposure to the elements’ through a harsh winter last year likely contributed to their deaths.” He further pondered the sudden onset of winter, musing, “I wonder if winter came on quickly and suddenly, they were just in survival mode in the tent.”
The presence of literature on outdoor survival and foraging at the campsite hinted at their possible intentions, with Barnes adding, “But it looked like they supplied at a grocery store.”
This heart-wrenching discovery serves as a sombre reminder of the unpredictable nature of the wilderness. As investigations continue, the community hopes to find answers and pay respects to the lives tragically lost.
Andy Halliday is a passionate outdoor enthusiast and an avid camper. He has been exploring the wilderness and camping in the great outdoors for over two decades, and his experiences have inspired him to write about the joys of camping and the beauty of nature.
As a camping enthusiast, he believes that spending time in the wilderness is not just a way to escape the daily grind, but also a way to connect with nature and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Andy has camped in various locations across the country and on two different continents. He has a wealth of knowledge and experience to share with fellow campers.
Through his writing, he hopes to inspire you to venture out into the wilderness and experience the beauty and serenity of camping. Andy articles and guides provide useful tips, advice, and insights on everything from selecting the right gear and equipment to finding the best campsites and hiking trails.
