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Cause of Death Revealed for Carlsbad Woman Found in Big Sur
Investigators found no evidence of a crime and said the 37-year-old died of probable alcohol withdrawal seizures tied to chronic alcohol use disorder.
On Thursday, Monterey County Sheriff-Coroner Tina Nieto announced that the death of 37-year-old Carlsbad resident Joanna Ruth Shields was ruled "natural," with detectives finding no evidence of crime.
Authorities initially classified the April 10, 2026, discovery of Shields' body in Los Padres National Forest near Sykes Hot Springs as a suspicious death due to visible markings on her neck and forehead.
Forensic analysis revealed the cause of death was "probable alcohol withdrawal seizures due to chronic alcohol use disorder," while the coroner determined neck markings were consistent with "postmortem insect activity."
Sheriff-Coroner Nieto offered condolences, stating "Our thoughts and prayers remain with Joanna's family and loved ones," while investigators closed the case with no further action required.
Alcohol withdrawal seizures occur in about 1% of people, typically within 48 hours of a sharp decrease in blood alcohol levels following prolonged heavy drinking, making them a rare yet life-threatening condition.