Skeletal Remains Found by Hikers Identified as Washington Woman Missing Since 2024

Hailey E. Athay's remains discovered in Rose Valley nearly 18 months after she went missing while mushroom hunting with a friend.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 6:26pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single bone fragment or piece of clothing found at the crime scene, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The grim discovery of skeletal remains in a remote wooded area raises unsettling questions about the fate of a troubled mother who vanished over a year ago.Kelso Today

Skeletal remains found by hikers in Washington state have been confirmed to be those of Hailey E. Athay, a 33-year-old mother of three who went missing in November 2024 after going mushroom picking with a friend in the Rose Valley area. Athay's family suspected foul play, as she struggled with addiction and mental health issues and had fallen out of touch with loved ones before.

Why it matters

The discovery of Athay's remains after nearly 18 months provides some closure for her family, but also raises questions about the circumstances surrounding her disappearance and death. Her case highlights the challenges faced by those dealing with mental health and addiction issues, and the need for better support and resources in the community.

The details

Two young men hiking in a wooded area in Rose Valley last Sunday discovered two bones and some clothing, prompting authorities to conduct a search that led to the recovery of nearly complete skeletal remains, as well as items of clothing and personal belongings. A forensic odontologist was able to positively identify the remains as those of Hailey Athay.

  • Athay was last seen by her family in Kelso, Washington in November 2024.
  • Her remains were discovered by hikers on Sunday, April 13, 2026.

The players

Hailey E. Athay

A 33-year-old mother of three who went missing in November 2024 while mushroom hunting with a friend in the Rose Valley area of Washington state.

Nicole Brooks

Athay's mother, who suspected foul play in her daughter's disappearance and said Athay struggled with addiction and mental health issues.

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What they’re saying

“Her daughter struggled with addiction and mental health issues, her mother told the Daily News in 2025, and had fallen out of touch with her loved ones before, which is why she wasn't reported missing until January, nearly two months after she was last seen.”

— Nicole Brooks, Athay's mother

What’s next

Authorities have not disclosed any evidence of foul play or possible suspects in Athay's disappearance, and her cause and manner of death remain under investigation.

The takeaway

The discovery of Hailey Athay's remains after nearly 18 months highlights the need for greater support and resources for those struggling with mental health and addiction issues, as well as the importance of prompt reporting and investigation of missing persons cases.