The Fresno County Coroner’s Office has confirmed that the body found by firefighters near Pine Flat Lake was that of Zillabelle Jane Friesen – who had been missing since July 21st.
Her daughter, Melaney Shaum, says her 81 year-old mother was an adventurous woman: “You know, oh, I read a book about that area – oh, I’m gonna go see it.”
Melaney Shaum said her mother had not taken her blood pressure pills, and it’s not know if that was a contributing factor.
Friesen’s car was found close to her body, on August 23rd by Cal Fire, when they came upon a green Ford Escape.
Friesen’s wallet and shoes were found nearby Maxon and Watts Valley Roads, in Tollhouse.
She had told family members she would be back in time for dinner, and police say that she may have become sick or disoriented during her drive before she ended up at the lake.
Chief Dyer says that an animal most likely had been there due to the condition of the remains, but he doesn’t believe foul play was involved.
“We had been praying for answers and we got a few answers but it opened up a whole world of answers and it’s pretty certain that not all of the questions will be answered.” – Melaney Shaum, Friesen’s Daughter.
