DAWSON COUNTY, Ga. — A multi-agency search for a North Carolina man reported missing during what was to have been a through hike along the Appalachian Trail entered a third day Tuesday.

Dawson County Public Safety Director Danny Thompson said during a morning press that Eddie Noonkester, 60, was reported missing Sunday morning. He is described as 5-feet, 10 inches tall and approximately 200 pounds with gray hair and a gray goatee. At approximately 11:30 a.m. Noonkester spoke to a Dawson County a 911 operator who said the man appeared “confused” and could not identify his location.

“On Monday, searchers found some of the man’s personal belongings. Last night, we focused with K-9 a search of that area throughout the evening and into the early morning hours,” Thompson said.

“Today we called in assistance from numerous law enforcement agencies. The DNR, Dawson County Sheriff’s Office, Parks Service staff and numerous fire departments from Gilmer, Fannin, Union are all represented here today.”

The National Forest Service pinged the man’s cell phone and today’s search is focused on that area but there have been no further pings and it appears the cell phone battery is dead.

The area being searched today is from the approach trail down High Shoals Road which leads to Len Foote Hike Inn and the Len Foote Trail back down to the visitors’ center and the falls.

Thompson described the area that is being searched is “very, very treacherous.”

Heavy downpours can be expected in the area the next 72 hours as well as the possibility of winter weather moving in.

“We will continue the push for Eddie in hopes of a positive outcome,” Thompson said.

Thompson said an email has been set up for anyone who would like volunteer to join the search. If you would like to volunteer, email [email protected] Please leave a phone number, your availability, and hiking level of experience.

If anyone has seen Noonkester, you are asked to contact the Dawson County 911.

 

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