The missing tourist in the white tank was found dead several months later

A hiker who went missing in Arizona’s White Tank Mountains in April has been found dead seven months later, although her cause of death is still unknown, authorities said.

On Sunday, Nov. 24, the body of Amber Barnett was found in White Tank Mountain Regional Park near Waddell, Sgt. Culbert Gillette of the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office confirmed to PEOPLE.

“The cause of death has not yet been determined,” Gillett wrote in an email.

Barnett was first reported missing by her family after she failed to return from a hike on the Mesquite Trail in Waddell.

Deputies were dispatched to the area Sunday for “possible human remains reported by a tourist,” according to an initial statement from the sheriff’s office.

“When deputies arrived, they were able to find human remains,” authorities said at the time, adding that “homicide detectives are investigating.”

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On Tuesday, November 26, Barnett’s son Anthony Merlin paid tribute to her in a Facebook post.

“My wonderful mother has gone to be with the Lord,” Merlina wrote. “She was found in a mountain of white tanks doing what she loved, seeking the Lord.”

“I am forever grateful for the example she set for me,” he continued. “She lived her life for Jesus and set herself apart to intercede and pray for others. She will be missed, but not forgotten. Thank you, mom. I miss you every day.”

A missing person’s card said Barnett was last seen on April 1 in Phoenix.

In the updated leaflet about missing persons, it is specified that “the last time she was on a hike in the White Tank mountains was on Tuesday, 04/02/2024. Her car was found in Lot 7 at the west end of Ramada Way. Her keys and wallet were found in her car.”