WALTON COUNTY, Fla. — Human remains discovered earlier this month in Point Washington State Forest have been identified as those of missing camper Bret Valona, the Walton County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) announced Tuesday.
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Mr Valona, 36, was reported missing in April after being dropped off at the Eastern Lake Trailhead. An avid outdoorsman described as a “primitive camper,” he was known to spend weeks at a time in the woods with little contact.
His family became concerned when weeks passed without hearing from him and contacted the WCSO.
Search efforts began in April with assistance from multiple organizations, including Walton Correctional Institution K-9 teams. His family, joined by volunteers and community members, also organized search parties in the Point Washington area.
On September 14, a father and son hiking in the forest discovered human remains and a campsite. Deputies from the WCSO responded and notified the District 1 Medical Examiner’s Office. Personal belongings at the site prompted immediate notification of Mr Valona’s family.
The WCSO stated that public notification was delayed at the request of Mr Valona’s parents until positive identification could be made.
“This is not the update we wanted to share. We want to first say that our hearts hurt for Bret’s family, friends, and everyone who knew and loved him,” the WCSO wrote on its Facebook page.
“We also want to thank everyone who helped search for Bret, from strangers to the Cajun Navy, Civil Air Patrol, and retired law enforcement. Your efforts are so appreciated. We are in debt to all of you.”
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The District 1 Medical Examiner confirmed the identity of the remains on September 24.
“Please join us in offering comfort to Bret’s family in their time of loss,” the WCSO stated. “Rest peacefully, Bret. Semper Fi.”
No foul play has been reported in connection with the case.
