Prescott, Arizona – Kristin Little, a 39-year-old woman from Prescott, tragically lost her life in a devastating accident on Friday evening. The incident occurred when her vehicle plunged approximately 1,000 feet off a cliff near the Thumb Butte area, southwest of Prescott. Authorities responded to the distress call at around 5 p.m., discovering the vehicle and Kristin halfway down the steep mountainside. She was ejected from the car during the fall and was found deceased at the scene.
The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) immediately deployed drones and a helicopter from the Arizona Department of Public Safety to search for any additional victims, but fortunately, no one else was found. Due to the challenging terrain and approaching darkness, YCSO decided to postpone the recovery of Kristin’s body until daylight, with personnel staying on-site throughout the night. Her body was successfully retrieved and transported to the medical examiner’s office just before noon on Saturday.
Investigators believe Kristin was driving north on Thumb Butte Road when she swerved to the left, causing her vehicle to veer off the road and tumble down the mountainside. The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation.
The Prescott community has been deeply affected by Kristin’s untimely death. Many took to social media to express their sorrow and condolences. Annette Marie wrote, "My thoughts and prayers with her family and friends," while Betsy S Harms shared, "Absolutely heartbreaking. Prayers for her friends and family." Kerri Bickford also commented, "So sorry to hear this, but the fact that they stayed with her all night—selfless and so kind. I would want somebody to do it for my kid or my family member."
The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office is committed to uncovering the details surrounding this tragic event, providing answers to the grieving community, and honoring the memory of Kristin Little.