LAKE SHASTA — After weeks of searching, officials have found a body they believe to be that of a missing Kelseyville woman who disappeared on Lake Shasta.
Ashlee Rodrigues, 22, went missing July 14 after she fell from the bow of a boat on which she was riding.
The Shasta County Sheriff”s dive team on Monday reported that two hunters scouting along the eastern shoreline of the lake”s Slaughterhouse Island found a woman”s body. It was in that same area that authorities have searched for Rodrigues since her disappearance.
“I believe we have her,” said dive team leader Sgt. Mark Lillibridge.
Lillibridge said the Coroner”s Office will conduct an investigation to positively identify the body and determine the cause and manner of death.
An autopsy is generally performed in cases where the death is a result of “other than natural causes,” and the autopsy is expected to be completed today, according to Supervisor Rob Brown.
Brown, a Rodrigues family friend, said officials also are using dental records for identification as well as a tattoo of a ladybug Rodrigues wore for her grandmother, who was nicknamed “Ladybug”.
In regard to the accident, Lillibridge said, “No criminal charges are being sought or filed. The determination has been made that the operator of the boat is not at fault and there was no criminal negligence involved.”
Lillibridge said the driver of the boat was Micheal Kues, formerly of Upper Lake and now residing in Sacramento.
This past weekend a celebration of life memorial was held for Rodrigues and followed by a reception at Brown”s private residence.
Of finding Rodrigues, Brown said, “It”s a big relief. This is not the best outcome, but it”s good we”ve got her. We”re all so grateful for all the help and support and the prayers. We know that had everything to do with having her returned to us.”
Contact Cynthia Davis at cdavis@record-bee.com.
