vehicle in turnout. Walked to rear of his vehicle and shot himself in head with .22 semi-automatic. Visitors who were bicycling found him shortly thereafter; one was a doctor, and he began CPR. Rangers transported B.A.O. to Sugarlands VC, where he was flown out by Lifestar helicopter to Knoxville. Pronounced dead at 2:25 pm. Left a note saying simply that he was going to do…
The residence of D.R., director of the Job Corps Center at Oconaluftee, caught fire and was damaged beyond repair. The Cherokee Fire Department responded and had the fire knocked down within about two hours. Most of the interior furnishings were destroyed by smoke, water or fire, and the building itself – a mobile home with additions – is said to be a total loss (value not yet determined). The cause of the fire is unknown and is being investigated by park rangers Hobbs and Holland, who may be assisted by Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF).
Mr. T.L. was found dead in his van. A flexible hose ran from the exhaust into the passenger compartment of the van.
A fire destroyed the home of the director of the Job Corps Center. The cause was not known. Update: The investigation is on-going, and the cause is still not certain.
As a result of an overflight by Tennessee state drug agents, a patch of marijuana was found along the parkway. Investigation revealed that 148 plants, each about 8 feet tall, were being cultivated in the plot. Chief ranger Pete Hart and his staff removed and destroyed the plants. There were no arrests and there are no suspects.
A “fly-over” done by Swains County Sheriff’s Office revealed a marijuana patch which was growing near Lands Creek. NPS and County Deputies eradicated 944 plants approximately 6 feet in height. All were turned over to Swains County authorities. No suspects, no arrests.
July 22, ery evening. Last evening when he did not return home his wife notified park personnel. A search was initiated at approximately 7:30pm which involved NPS rangers, state agencies, and local Emergency Services groups. At approximately 11:06pm A.N.M.’s body was found in a deep pool of water 200 yards south of the Husky Grove Branch. Cause of death has not been determined. No evidence of foul play has been found. A joint investigation is being
conducted by NPS park personnel along with Sevire County officials.
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