Mystery in Arizona: Two teens found dead, authorities investigating possible homicide
Pandora Kjolsrud, 18, and Evan Clark, 17, were found dead in a remote area of Arizona; sheriff’s office leads probe.
Local law enforcement are looking into the deaths of two teens discovered in a remote part of Arizona as a possible homicide in rural Maricopa County. The person who has been identified as Pandora Kjolsrud, 18 years old, was discovered dead with a 17 year old male, who friends have identified to authorities as Evan Clark, Tuesday morning near Mount Ord, a mountainous area popular for camping and hiking approximately 100 miles northeast of Phoenix along a highway that connects the towns of Mesa and Payson.
Deputies from the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office reported that their office was dispatched to the location after a service call and both teens were found deceased. Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident and want to communicate that information continues to be developed. They also ask the public to provide any relevant information.
ALSO SEE: Texas man found dead in stairwell after visiting girlfriend’s apartment, according to the Police
Sheriff’s office pursuing homicide investigation
The sheriff's office said investigators are treating the incident with urgency and care and was emphatic that it is conducting a "complete and thorough investigation." As the sheriff's office investigates this incident, they are conducting this investigation alongside law enforcement partners and asked the public to be patient while the facts are recorded.
The sheriff's office encourages anyone with information to call the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office at 602-876-TIPS. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to providing justice for the victims and support to their grieving families.
ALSO SEE: 11 people hospitalized after Memorial Day Weekend boat shooting in Little River, South Carolina
Community mourns loss of two high school students
The school confirmed that both teenagers were students at Arcadia High School in Phoenix in a message sent to parents. The campus is offering grief counselors and mental health professionals to classmates and staff affected by the loss.
The family of Kjolsrud described her as a colorful and kind person who had a significant impact on many lives. "She lived large and was always willing to go on an adventure," her mother said. Loved ones at a memorial remembered Pandora and Evan as compassionate, and full of potential.
