Teens found dead on remote Arizona mountain road

At first glance, the road leading to the area appears to go nowhere.

PHOENIX — The remote mountain road where two teenagers were found dead is so isolated that most drivers on State Route 87 wouldn’t even notice the narrow turnoff leading to it.

The teens, identified as Pandora Kjolsrud, 18, and 17-year-old Evan Clark, were found dead in a remote area near Mount Ord on May 27. 

RELATED: 2 Arcadia High School students killed, bodies found near SR-87

The road to Mount Ord begins just off the northbound side of SR 87, near the top of a mountain pass. At first glance, it appears to go nowhere. The road narrows quickly to a single lane and winds through rugged terrain for miles.

12News traveled the rough road in a four-wheel drive SUV and still faced difficulty navigating the rutted, rock-strewn path, which eventually dead-ends just below the summit.

There are no formal campgrounds there, just a few makeshift fire pits and small clearings where someone could pitch a tent.

Authorities have not disclosed the exact spot where the teens’ bodies were discovered, but few areas along the route are accessible. It’s a place one would likely only reach intentionally.

“At this time, our focus is on conducting a comprehensive and meticulous investigation to ensure justice for the victims and their loved ones,” the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement. 

The teens had attended Arcadia High School in the Scottsdale Unified School District. A letter was sent out to students and parents informing them of the deaths.

MCSO did not disclose how the two individuals may have died. 

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact MCSO at 602-876-TIPS.

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