A heartbreaking search has ended in tragedy after authorities confirmed the body of a Kentucky doctor, who went missing during a cruise stop in Alaska, has been found.
Dr. Marites Buenafe, a 62-year-old physician from Lexington, vanished earlier this week after disembarking from the Norwegian Bliss cruise ship for a solo hike in Juneau. According to officials, she never returned to the ship before its scheduled 1:30 p.m. departure on Tuesday.
The experienced medical professional, affiliated with University of Kentucky Healthcare, had texted her family that morning about plans to hike the trail from Gold Ridge to Gastineau Peak… a well-known route popular with tourists for its scenic views.
Surveillance cameras captured Dr. Buenafe at 7:30 a.m. at the top of the Mount Roberts Tramway, a spot offering panoramic views of the city and Gastineau Channel. That was the last known sighting before she stopped responding to texts and calls.
Her family, including her sister Melody Buenafe, immediately raised alarms when she failed to return. Despite efforts to reach her, they received no response. Melody and their mother even flew back to Juneau after the cruise ship departed to aid in the search.
The Alaska Army National Guard, working alongside Juneau Mountain Rescue, deployed helicopters, search dogs, and drones across the rugged terrain. On Thursday morning, search crews located her body approximately 1,700 feet below the Gold Ridge ridgeline, confirming the worst fears of her loved ones.
“This part of the mountains isn’t considered especially remote, but the terrain is steep and unforgiving,” said Austin McDaniel, a spokesperson for the Alaska Department of Public Safety.
Recovery efforts were completed with help from Temsco Helicopters and the National Guard.
Dr. Buenafe leaves behind a legacy of compassion and dedication, having served the Lexington community for more than 20 years in the medical field.
