A Utah park visitor made a horrifying discovery after finding the body of a woman partially covered by a fallen tree branch.
The woman has been identified as 35-year-old Megan Frost, according to the Moab Police Department.
Police said the tragic discovery was made around 6:15 a.m. on Monday, June 8, at Swanny Park in Moab, Utah. A person walking through the park noticed a branch on the ground under the largest tree in the southwestern section of the park.
When the person looked closer, they realized someone was partially covered by the branch and ran to call for help.
Multiple agencies responded to the scene, but officials said Frost had already died.
“Unfortunately, it was clear that the woman found on the ground had passed away hours earlier and was beyond help,” police said.
Investigators set up a crime scene and began looking into what happened. A preliminary investigation found that Frost may have arrived at the seven-acre park sometime after 1:30 a.m. and before 4 or 5 a.m.
Police believe Frost climbed to the top of the tree, about 40 feet above the ground. Investigators said she was likely standing near the “V” at the top of the tree when one of the branches broke.
Frost then fell head-first to the ground, according to police.
Authorities said they still “do not have all of the answers” and are waiting for autopsy results. However, investigators said the incident appears to have been a tragic accident.
Police said Frost’s injuries were consistent with a fall from that height onto a grassy surface and were most likely instantly fatal.
Moab Police Chief Lex Bell offered condolences to Frost’s family and loved ones after the devastating discovery.
“We wish to express our heartfelt condolences to the family members, friends, and loved ones whose lives are forever changed by this tragic event,” Bell said.
