Cause of death determined as natural for woman found dead at Sykes Hot Springs in Big Sur.

The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office released the coroner’s findings following an investigation into the death of Joanna Ruth Shields, 37, of Carlsbad, whose body was recovered April 10 from the Sykes Hot Springs area in Big Sur.

The Sheriff's Office coroner and detectives conducted a comprehensive forensic examination and investigation, determining the manner of death to be natural, meaning it resulted exclusively from an internal disease, illness or the aging process without any outside physical or chemical force.

The cause of death is determined to be “probable alcohol withdrawal seizures due to chronic alcohol use disorder,” according to a statement issued by the Sheriff’s Office. 

The death was initially deemed suspicious because "we don't know what the cause of death is," Sheriff's Office Cmdr. Andres Rosas said at the time. Investigators found no evidence during their forensic examination or throughout the investigation to indicate Shields was the victim of a crime.

Initially, media reports referenced witness accounts describing possible strangulation marks and an injury to Shields' forehead. Observations made prior to a forensic examination are considered preliminary and require scientific evaluation, Rosas notes. 

The investigation determined that the markings observed on Shields' body were consistent with “postmortem insect activity,” or injuries being caused by the movement or feeding of insects on a dead body—not evidence of strangulation or any criminal act. The injury observed on her forehead was determined to be superficial and was not identified as a contributing factor in her death.

Detectives also contacted the individual who was reportedly with Shields prior to her death.

The Sheriff’s Office reports that the individual was cooperative throughout the investigation. Based on the results of the findings, no further investigative action will be taken.

“We hope these findings provide them with some measure of peace and closure after several difficult months,” Sheriff Tina Nieto said. "Our thoughts and prayers remain with Joanna's family and loved ones.”