Search crews in Alaska recovered the body of a missing tourist on Thursday, confirming the Kentucky doctor found dead in Juneau. Dr. Marites Buenafe, 62, a physician from Lexington, Kentucky, disappeared after hiking alone near Juneau during a cruise stop.
She had departed the Norwegian Cruise Line ship on Tuesday morning, intending to hike from Gold Ridge to Gastineau Peak. Bueanafe messaged family members that morning, saying she planned to take the Mount Roberts Tramway into the mountains to begin walking.
Surveillance footage later showed her exiting the tram building around 7:30 am, marking her last known appearance alive. When she failed to return to the ship before its 1:30 pm departure, local officials began an urgent search operation.
Search teams deployed helicopters, dogs, and ground crews across the mountainous area south of downtown Juneau throughout Tuesday and Wednesday. On Thursday morning, an Alaska Army National Guard helicopter spotted her body 1,700 feet below Gold Ridge.
Alaska State Troopers confirmed her identity shortly after recovery and notified her family and cruise personnel of the discovery. Officials described the trail as popular, and accidents are not uncommon due to changing weather and steep, uneven terrain.
The area where she was found is not considered remote but does present serious risks for unprepared or solo hikers. When exploring Alaska’s backcountry, authorities urge visitors to carry gear, including food, extra layers, and a GPS device.
Travelers should always share hiking plans and expected return times with others to help in case emergencies arise suddenly. Dr Buenafe was a well-respected physician at UK HealthCare, and colleagues described her as compassionate and highly committed.
