Missing St. George Man Found Dead In Wilderness

ST. GEORGE, Utah – The body of man who went missing May 4 was discovered Sunday in a wilderness area of the county, according to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

John Brent Hunt, 59, of St. George, was reported missing after he failed to return home from a fishing trip.

According to WCSO, a group who was camping in an area of southwest Washington County on Saturday reported finding Hunt’s vehicle near Beaver Dam Wash. Deputies responded to the scene and searched the immediate area, but they were unable to locate Hunt due to “darkness and other conditions.”

Investigators and search and rescue volunteers returned Sunday to continue the search. Hunt was discovered approximately 1.4 miles from his vehicle.

“Our initial investigation has led us to believe Hunt had been deceased for several days prior to finding him,” according to the WCSO. “The cause of death was not immediately apparent and is still under investigation. However, foul play is not suspected in the incident.”

Hunt’s family released a statement on a Facebook page used to coordinate search efforts:

As has been true all week, we have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support for Brent and our family. We learned today that our sweet Brent was found deceased in the wilderness that was his second home. Our hearts are broken but filled with the love, generosity, and kindness of this original soul. We want to extend our sincerest thanks to the Washington County Sheriff Department, friends, and family for every effort you have extended to our family. We cannot thank you enough.