I had many of the same thoughts posted above when I read the article. Then I remembered that hypothermia can cause severe disorientation and general breakdown of the thought process. She could have stumbled into the parking lot with her brain not functioning much beyond the minimum needed to walk. I believe Jack London's wrote a story called "To Start a Fire" that describes what happens to the brain and body as you freeze to death.
Since no measurements are given "next to her SUV" could also mean 50 yards away on the other side of the parking lot.

That said, it is really stupid to go hiking any distance alone, in the rain, with sub freezing temps, without proper gear, not telling anyone where you're going or when to expect you back etc....

__________________
Greg Schwall

1983 300SD - 465,000 miles

Ga, has some bad mojo. Seriously thoguh folks, wouldn't ya check the weather before you venture out on a hike in Winter time?

__________________
"It's normal for these things to empty your wallet and break your heart in the process."
2012 SLK 350
1987 420 SEL

Where do you get this stuff, Bot? That was effing great! I'm laughing so hard I have tears running down my face.

__________________
" We have nothing to fear but the main stream media itself . . . ."- Adapted from Franklin D Roosevelt for the 21st century

OBK #55

1998 Lincoln Continental - Sold
Max 1984 300TD 285,000 miles - Sold
The Dee8gonator 1987 560SEC 196,000 miles - Sold
Orgasmatron - 2006 CLS500 90,000 miles
2002 C320 Wagon 122,000 miles
2016 AMG GTS 12,000 miles

And look at you, wanting to move to Savannah and whatnot . . . .

__________________
" We have nothing to fear but the main stream media itself . . . ."- Adapted from Franklin D Roosevelt for the 21st century

OBK #55

1998 Lincoln Continental - Sold
Max 1984 300TD 285,000 miles - Sold
The Dee8gonator 1987 560SEC 196,000 miles - Sold
Orgasmatron - 2006 CLS500 90,000 miles
2002 C320 Wagon 122,000 miles
2016 AMG GTS 12,000 miles