Five days after she went for a run and never returned, a countywide search led to the recovery of a North Fort Myers woman. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office has discovered the remains of a woman believed to be Arielle Valdes, the 21-year-old who went missing. Friends and relatives of Valdes confirmed their worst fears on September 2, 2024, when they discovered her presumed remains near the Caloosahatchee River in North Fort Myers.
This was the seventh day of substantial efforts by the Sheriff’s Office in the search for Valdes. The Sheriff’s Office deployed a wide range of resources, including marine boats, aviation units, and several drones, both on land and at sea.
They also deployed K9 teams and the Forensics Division, which utilized the ANDE quick DNA technology. The Major Crimes Unit actively participated in the hunt. These teams, efforts, and resources ultimately led the Sheriff’s Office to Valdes. The Sheriff’s Office reported that there is no preliminary indication of foul play. The Major Crimes Unit has been in contact with the family to provide the most recent information. As the inquiry progresses, the team will continue to work with the District 21 Medical Examiner’s Office. “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 said in a statement. Valdes had left her home for a run on August 28, 2024, about 6:30 p.m., but never returned. Concerned over her safety, the family alerted police, prompting the Sheriff’s Office to conduct a search and inquiry. The Sheriff’s Office characterized Valdes as a “Hispanic female, 5’4, 100lbs, with brown hair and brown eyes” on Facebook. They also reported that her last sighting included a light-colored sweatshirt, gym shorts, and what appeared to be black and white high-top Converse sneakers. The cops stated that investigators checked DOT tape, which showed the enthusiastic runner traveling southbound on US 41 from Pondella Rd. in North Fort Myers near her residence at 6:45 p.m. that evening. Additional cameras spotted her heading southbound near the Edison Bridge just after 6:50 p.m. These data assisted the authorities in their investigations until they discovered Valdes’ body.
Her family is currently grieving, and her sister, Isabella Hergert, has expressed gratitude to the community for their love and support during the search for Valdes. She said on Facebook, “Ari, you were too lovely for this planet. I adore you and will see you again in every lifetime. You are a piece of my soul that I will always search for.” Hergert also requested privacy as the family mourns Valdes, whom she described as an “angel.” Before Valdes’s discovery, Hergert launched a Go-Fund-Me page to solicit donations for a $1,000 reward. The prize money would go to the individual who provided the information that led to Valdes’ safe return.
Sowels will wait for Valdes’ family to decide how to best use the money. He also expressed his sorrow to the relatives, stating, “The loss of Arielle has crushed us.” Please join us in allowing Arielle’s family the time and space they require to mourn and absorb this unthinkable loss.” Sowels stated that they are grateful for everyone’s support and understanding during this difficult time. He informed the family that they would provide an update on the cash’s usage after they had time to reflect. Meanwhile, he confirmed that Isabella Hergert has received all donations.