Hiker missing for 4 days found dead on popular trail

PHOENIX (KPHO/Gray News) — A popular hiking area in south Phoenix closed early Tuesday morning for a death investigation.

The Phoenix Fire Department said the body of a hiker who was reported missing four days ago was found on the Mormon Trailhead.

Police and firefighters were seen at the trailhead on South Mountain for several hours.

The investigation prompted the closure of the Mormon Trailhead parking lot and trailhead, which reopened around 7:15 a.m.

Officials did not immediately identify the hiker or the circumstances surrounding their death.

The Mormon Trail is considered a moderate hike with some rugged sections and a heavily trafficked path that offers sweeping views of the Phoenix skyline.