Search for missing Moab couple shifts from 'rescue' to 'recovery'

MOAB, Utah (ABC4) — The search for a missing Moab couple has officially moved from a “rescue” mission to a “recovery” mission, according to Grand County Sheriff Jamison Wiggins.

Ray and Maranda Ankofski have been missing since June 21 after hiking the Steel Bender off-road trail in Grand County. The search for the couple began after they failed to return in time and their vehicle was reported abandoned.

The couple's son, Raymond Ankofski, told ABC4.com earlier this week that authorities planned to scale back their response at the end of the week due to costs associated with the search effort. According to a news release from the Grand County Sheriff's Office, as of Tuesday, eight agencies were involved in the search.

“Despite considerable efforts, including the use of advanced search techniques and resources, Ray and Maranda Ankofski have not been located,” Wiggins said in a press release. “The decision to move from a search and rescue mission to a recovery mission was made based on the evidence collected at the scene during the operation. »

In the days following their disappearance, the couple's children launched a fundraiser through GoFundMe, with the initial goal of raising $25,000 — but Raymond Ankofski explained that the money would not be intended for the family.

“The money will be used to fund search and rescue to bring my parents back and find them,” Rauymond Ankofski said.