Joseph Reed Obituary – Authorities announced on Wednesday that the lifeless body of Joseph Reed, a hiker who had gone missing while climbing a peak in Arizona, has been discovered. Reed, 46, was last spotted on Picacho Peak at approximately 12 p.m. on Tuesday by fellow hikers in the vicinity, as reported by the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office. Picacho Peak is situated within Picacho Peak State Park, approximately 75 miles southeast of Phoenix.
However, Reed’s vehicle was found in the parking lot near the trailhead on the following day, according to authorities. Initially, authorities initiated a search for another individual who was also registered to the vehicle. However, it was later revealed by AZFamily that Reed had entered the park using a pass issued to this individual.
Search and rescue teams located Reed’s body at approximately 6 p.m. on Wednesday. While officials believe that Reed had fallen, the circumstances surrounding the fall remain unclear, as stated by KPNX-TV.
The 1,500-foot Picacho Peak offers a breathtaking view of a field of wildflowers and is renowned for its distinctive shape, visible from downtown Tucson, which is approximately 40 miles away.
Additionally, Picacho Peak holds historical significance as it was the site of the largest clash between Union and Confederate scouting parties in Arizona during the Civil War. This event, known as the Battle of Picacho Pass, took place on April 15, 1862, according to Arizona State Parks.