Authorities have confirmed that the body discovered off the Ma & Pa Trail in Bel Air, Maryland, on Sunday is that of Rachel Morin, a 37-year-old woman who was reported missing by her boyfriend. The Harford County Sheriff’s Office is treating her death as a homicide and has initiated an investigation.
Rachel Morin went to the trail at approximately 6 p.m. on Saturday, and when she failed to return home, her boyfriend reported her missing at 11:30 p.m. the same day. Her car was found at the trailhead, and the body was located by a volunteer searcher at around 1 p.m. on Sunday.
In response to the incident, the authorities set up a command center at the scene. Harford County Sheriff Jeffrey Gahler urged trail-goers to be vigilant while also acknowledging that they are unsure whether there is an ongoing threat to the public.
“We understand this homicide causes a lot of concern. It causes a lot of concern for us,” Gahler said. “The trail is one of our major parks and recs assets that runs through a lot of different parts of Harford County.”
Residents of the typically peaceful community expressed shock at the tragic event. Authorities are ramping up police presence along the trail during the course of the investigation.
In light of the tragedy, Morin’s sister Rebekah started a GoFundMe page, which has already raised over $20,000 to ensure Rachel receives a deserving funeral. Rebekah Morin stated, “This was not an accidental death, and she did not go willingly, and she deserves a funeral worthy of her beauty.”
As the investigation unfolds, the community is urged to remain cautious while using the trail. Harford County Sheriff Gahler advised people to stay aware of their surroundings and consider walking or running with a friend or an alert device. He also emphasized the importance of reporting any suspicious activity to law enforcement promptly.
The Ma & Pa Trail is situated near the center of Bel Air, approximately 30 miles northeast of Baltimore. The authorities are committed to uncovering the truth behind Rachel Morin’s tragic death and ensuring the safety of those who use the trail.