Hiker Discovers Human Remains Near Glendale, Identification Confirmed

Authorities have confirmed the identity of remains found in Glendale as Amber Barnett, according to the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. The medical examiner’s office made the announcement following the discovery made over the weekend.

On November 24, a hiker reported potential human remains at White Tank Mountain Regional Park. In response, deputies from the sheriff’s office were dispatched to the scene and confirmed the find.

The agency’s homicide unit has taken over the investigation, but no further details have been released at this time.

In other related news, investigations continue in Phoenix where human bones were found earlier this month. Additionally, bones discovered near the Hoover Dam were identified as those of a man from Michigan.

The Valley, as locals refer to the Phoenix metropolitan area, is the largest metropolitan area in the Southwest. Besides Phoenix, it encompasses cities such as Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, and Glendale. The region has a combined population of approximately 4.8 million, making it the 11th largest metropolitan area in the U.S.

Maricopa County is notable for its size as well, ranking as the fourth largest county in the U.S. by population with over 4.4 million residents. Covering 9,224 square miles, it houses around 63% of Arizona’s population and is larger than several U.S. states.

The county boasts one of the nation’s largest park systems, featuring around 120,000 acres of parks, trails, and campgrounds. The county seat, Phoenix, also serves as the state capital and is the fifth most populous city nationwide. Maricopa County derives its name from the Maricopa, or Piipaash, Native American tribe.