Family of Pearland couple reported missing after flash flood in Utah raises money to fund search efforts

MOAB, Utah — It’s been more than a month since a Pearland couple went missing during a vacation in Moab, Utah.  

The Grand County Sheriff’s Office said Ray and Maranda Ankofski were reported missing on June 21 after they didn’t return from Steel Bender, a popular off-roading trail.

Editor’s note: The above video originally aired on June 29.

They believe Ray, 58, and Maranda, 50, were likely swept away in a flash flood.  

“It’s just total destruction down through there,” Grand County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Mike Palmer said after a massive search in June.  

More than 10 agencies and volunteers joined the search but Palmer said the only sign of the couple they found was a pair of pants with Ray’s wallet and ID in them.

After an exhaustive effort, they shifted from a search and rescue mission to a recovery effort to provide closure for the family. 

After the search was scaled back, the couple’s daughters started a fund to raise money for additional resources. 

“We were informed that funds are running low and they will have to scale back the search to just the local sheriff’s department,” Ashlynn Ankofski posted on the GoFundMe account. “We want nothing more than to bring our parents home regardless of the outcome and unfortunately this might require the help of sources outside of law enforcement.”

By July 24, the fund had surpassed their $25,000 goal. 

“The support we have received has been overwhelmingly positive and we appreciate everyone who has reached out,” Ashlynn posted. “At this time what we truly need is thoughts and prayers that they are found safe.”

Ray and Maranda’s other daughter, Donna Stevens, told KHOU 11 News that her parents were active and enjoyed riding ATVs during their annual trip to Moab. 

“My parents were 2 amazing people doing something they loved and we are devastated that this is the current circumstances,” Ashlynn said.