MOAB, Utah — Nearly five weeks after a Pearland couple went missing while hiking in Moab, Utah, their family finally has some answers.
The Grand County Sheriff's Office said remains found earlier this week in the Millcreek Canyon have been positively identified as Maranda Ankofski.
Editor's note: The above video originally aired on June 29.
She and her husband Ray were reported missing on June 21 after they didn't return from Steel Bender, a popular off-roading trail.
The sheriff's office said Ray, 58, and Maranda, 50, were likely swept away in a flash flood.
"The Grand County Sheriff's Office extends its deepest condolences to Maranda Ankofski's family and friends during this difficult time," they posted on Facebook Saturday after the remains were identified.
The Pearland couple had been the focus of a massive search effort involving more than 10 agencies and volunteers. Until this week, the only sign of the couple they found was a pair of pants snagged in a tree with Ray's wallet and ID in them.
The search was eventually scaled back so the couple's daughters started a fund to raise money for additional resources.
"We want nothing more than to bring our parents home regardless of the outcome and unfortunately this might require the help of sources outside of law enforcement," Ashlynn Ankofski posted on the GoFundMe account.
By July 24, the fund had surpassed their $25,000 goal.
It's not clear who found Maranda's remains.
Ray and Maranda's other daughter, Donna Stevens, told KHOU 11 News that her parents were active and enjoyed riding ATVs during their annual trip to Moab.
"My parents were 2 amazing people doing something they loved and we are devastated that this is the current circumstances," Ashlynn said.