Scottsdale Police Identify Woman Found Dead in Canal

Passion Schurz, 28, was reported missing from nearby Salt River-Pima Maricopa Indian Community.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 3:09am

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Scottsdale police have identified the woman found dead in a local canal as 28-year-old Passion Schurz, who was reported missing from the nearby Salt River-Pima Maricopa Indian Community on March 22. Authorities say there were no signs of foul play, and the medical examiner is still determining the official cause of death.

Why it matters

This tragic incident has shaken the local community and raised concerns about the safety of the area's canals. Police are working to investigate the circumstances surrounding Passion's death and provide support to her family.

The details

Scottsdale police made the initial identification based on Passion's tattoos, physical characteristics, and clothing. Dental records will be used to confirm her identity. The medical examiner has not found any evidence of injuries related to fractures, stab wounds, or gunshot wounds, but the full report, including toxicology, is still pending.

  • Passion Schurz was reported missing from the Salt River-Pima Maricopa Indian Community on March 22.
  • Her body was found in a Scottsdale canal on the morning of March 28.

The players

Passion Schurz

A 28-year-old woman who was reported missing from the nearby Salt River-Pima Maricopa Indian Community and was later found dead in a Scottsdale canal.

Scottsdale Police Department

The local law enforcement agency investigating Passion Schurz's death and working with the Salt River Police Department and the medical examiner to determine the cause of death.

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What they’re saying

“We can confirm that there were no injuries related to fractures, stab wounds, or gunshot wounds. The medical examiner is still determining the official cause of death. We're being told the full report, including toxicology, won't be ready for several more weeks.”

— Scottsdale Police Department

What’s next

Scottsdale detectives are continuing to work with Salt River Police investigators and the medical examiner to thoroughly investigate this case and determine how Passion Schurz died and ended up in the canal.

The takeaway

This tragic incident has highlighted the need for improved safety measures and community support around the Scottsdale area's canal system. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to help provide closure for Passion's family.