Missing Runner Later Found Dead Was ‘Acting Strange’ and Said She Was ‘Hearing Demon Voices’: Police Report

Mar. 15, 2025

Arielle Valdes.Photo:Lee County Sheriff’s Office

Lee County Sheriff’s Office

In the days since the headline-making disappearance ofArielle Valdes, who was later found dead, new details have come to light in police documents indicating the young woman was having struggles with her mental health, as police have said there’s no indication of a public safety threat.

Coutinho also mentioned that her daughter said “she was hearing demon voices in her head,” per the report.

According to her mother, when Valdes — who was not on any medication, nor had she received any relevant diagnosis — left her home in North Fort Myers on Aug. 28 around 6:30 p.m. she was not wearing shoes.

Police went on to write that Coutinho believed that her daughter, who disappeared without her phone, was “having some sort of mental crisis and believes she needs help.”

Five days later, on Monday, Sept. 2, the LCSO announced the remains of a woman believed to be Valdes were found during a search along the Caloosahatchee River in North Fort Myers.

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“Preliminarily, there is no evidence to indicate that foul play was involved,” said the LCSO in aFacebook post. “Our hearts remain with Arielle’s family and loved ones as they navigate the coming days.”

Additional details about her death have not yet been publicly released and police tell PEOPLE that per state law, they “cannot disclose the manner of her death.” PEOPLE has reached out to the local medical examiner.

“Know what’s important before it’s taken away," she added.

Meanwhile, in a separate tribute, as she shared her grief, Hergert added that she was “so blessed I got to experience you and call you my sister.”

Arielle Valdes.Go Fund Me

Go Fund Me

As of Wednesday, Sept. 4, aGoFundMeset up to help honor Valdes and support her family had raised over $9,000.

“Arielle’s passing is a profound loss,” read a message on the fundraiser.“We are committed to honoring her memory in ways that truly reflect the person she was.”

If you or someone you know needs mental health help, text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a certified crisis counselor.

source: people.com