A North Fort Myers woman has been found, five days after she went for a run and never returned, leading to a county-wide search.The Lee County Sheriff’s Office has found remains of a woman presumed to be the missing 21-year-old, Arielle Valdes.On September 2, 2024, friends and family of Valdes confirmed their worst nightmares when the remains believed to be hers were discovered along the Caloosahatchee River, in North Fort Myers.
K9 teams, and the Forensics Division, which utilized the ANDE rapid DNA device, were also used. The Major Crimes Unit was actively involved in the search. These teams, efforts, and resources eventually led the Sheriff’s office to locate Valdes. The Sheriff’s office stated that there is no initial evidence pointing to foul play. The Major Crimes Unit has been in contact with the family to share the latest information.The unit will continue to collaborate with the District 21 Medical Examiner’s Office as the investigation progresses. “Our hearts remain with Arielle’s family and loved ones as they navigate the coming days during this time of grief,” the Sheriff’s office wrote.Valdes had left her residence on August 28, 2024, at around 6:30 p.m. for a run but never returned. Concerned for her safety, the family contacted authorities, prompting the Sheriff’s office to launch their search and investigation.In their Facebook post, the Sheriff’s office described Valdes as “Hispanic female, 5’4″, 100lbs, with brown hair and brown eyes.” They also noted that she was last seen wearing a light-colored hoodie, gym shorts, and what appeared to be black and white high-top Converse-style sneakers.The officers shared that DOT footage reviewed by detectives showed the avid runner heading southbound on US 41 from Pondella Rd. in North Fort Myers near her neighborhood at 6:45 p.m. that evening. Additional cameras captured her moving southbound toward the Edison Bridge shortly after 6:50 p.m. These details helped the police with their investigations until they located Valdes’ body.
Sowels will wait for Valdes’s family to decide the best way to use these contributions. He also grieved with family, saying “We are heartbroken about Arielle’s passing. Please join us in giving Arielle’s family the time and space they need to grieve and process this unimaginable loss.”Sowels added that they deeply appreciate the support and understanding from everyone during this challenging time. He assured that once the family has had a chance to reflect, they will provide an update on how the funds will be used. In the meantime, he confirmed that all donated funds are being directed to Isabella Hergert.