Missing Mom Found Dead After Mushroom Picking Trip

Hailey Athay, a 33-year-old mother of three, has been found deceased in Washington, nearly a year and a half after she went missing. Athay was last contacted before Thanksgiving in 2024, when she mentioned going mushroom picking with a man unknown to her family. Her disappearance was reported in January 2025.

Horrified hikers discovered nearly complete skeletal remains, along with clothing and personal belongings, on April 12, 2026, in a remote area near Kelso. This location had been previously searched without success. Forensic anthropologists confirmed the remains were human, and dental records matched them to Athay. The Cowlitz County Coroner's Office is working to determine the cause and manner of her death.

Athay's mother, Nicole Brooks, expressed that while the outcome was not entirely unexpected due to the long search, it was not the desired result. She stated that her daughter struggled with addiction and sometimes lost contact for extended periods, but always made an effort to check in. Brooks strongly suspects foul play, believing her daughter was left unprepared in harsh November conditions.

Family and friends held a candlelight vigil to honor Athay. The GoFundMe campaign initially started for search efforts will now fund her funeral. Athay's three daughters are being cared for by family members. As of April 18, 2026, no criminal charges have been announced, and the family is focused on seeking justice.