Michelle Rae Vanek
RESOLVED
Vanek, circa 2005
-
Missing Since
09/24/2005
-
Missing From
Eagle County, Colorado
-
Classification
Lost/Injured Missing
- Sex Female
- Race
White
- Age 35 years old
- Distinguishing Characteristics White female.
Details of Disappearance
Vanek disappeared on September 24, 2005, when she went to hike on the 14,000-foot Mount of the Holy Cross in Eagle County, Colorado. In 2024, a fragment of her skull was found on the mountain. It was identified in September 2025. No other remains were located. Investigators believe she left the trail and then suffered a fatal fall.
Investigating Agency
- Eagle County Sheriff's Office
970-328-8500
Updated 5 times since October 12, 2004. Last updated January 28, 2026; case resolved.
Vanek, circa 2005
- Missing Since 09/24/2005
- Missing From Eagle County, Colorado
- Classification Lost/Injured Missing
- Sex Female
- Race White
- Age 35 years old
- Distinguishing Characteristics White female.
Details of Disappearance
Vanek disappeared on September 24, 2005, when she went to hike on the 14,000-foot Mount of the Holy Cross in Eagle County, Colorado. In 2024, a fragment of her skull was found on the mountain. It was identified in September 2025. No other remains were located. Investigators believe she left the trail and then suffered a fatal fall.
Investigating Agency
- Eagle County Sheriff's Office 970-328-8500
Updated 5 times since October 12, 2004. Last updated January 28, 2026; case resolved.