GRAND COUNTY, Utah — Search and rescue teams are actively searching the Steel Bender Off Road Trail area for Raymond and Maranda Ankofski, a couple from Texas who went missing before a significant flooding event. The Grand County Sheriff’s Office announced that search efforts would continue on Wednesday after an unsuccessful attempt on Tuesday.
The missing couple, identified by family members as 58-year-old Raymond Ankofski and 51-year-old Maranda Ankofski, are known for their annual trips to the Moab area. They were last heard from on Friday afternoon. Moab police stated that the couple was riding in an area affected by serious flash flooding due to a storm. Concern arose when the pair didn’t check out of their hotel room on Monday, prompting an investigation. They were expected to leave on Sunday and return to Texas on Monday.
Raymond’s sister, Donna Stevens, mentioned that initially, the family wasn’t overly concerned because the couple often ventured out of range and sometimes camped instead of staying in hotels. However, when they hadn’t been seen at their hotel for several days, worries grew.
On Monday, the Grand County Sheriff’s Office discovered an abandoned utility terrain vehicle (UTV) belonging to the couple. According to Stevens, the couple enjoyed rock crawling on trails with their ATV, and this was their first time on the Steel Bender Trail. The couple always checked in with family members via text.
Currently, ground search teams, dogs, helicopters, and other specialized equipment are being used to locate the Ankofskis. Donna Stevens shared a heartwarming story of a man who searched all night with his horse and dog, ultimately finding the couple’s vehicle at the trailhead.
Officials have asked the public to avoid the Steel Bender Trail area during the search. Those who want to assist can provide food and drinks for search teams by contacting the Grand County Sheriff’s Office. Anyone with information about the couple’s whereabouts is also urged to reach out to the sheriff’s office.
The priority remains the swift and safe resolution of this situation. Stevens expressed confidence in the couple’s ability to handle outdoor conditions for an extended period and shared that the family is heartbroken but hopeful for their safe return. She emphasized the emotional toll of waiting for news and the family’s continued prayers for a positive outcome
