Townsend, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – A search operation is underway in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park after a Texas man was reported missing.
Park officials said 24-year-old Sahil Jilani was last seen around 8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 5, at Riverstone Campground in Townsend. Authorities became concerned after Jilani could not be located, leading to an investigation by park personnel.
According to the National Park Service, Jilani’s vehicle was discovered Wednesday at the Abrams Falls Trailhead, a popular hiking destination within the park. The discovery prompted search efforts in the area as rangers work to determine his whereabouts.
Jilani is described as being 5 feet, 9 inches tall and weighing approximately 140 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes and is a resident of Texas.
Park officials have not released additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding his disappearance, nor have they said whether he was hiking alone.
Searchers continue to focus efforts in and around the Abrams Falls area while investigators seek information that could help locate Jilani.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park attracts millions of visitors each year, and officials routinely remind hikers and campers to inform others of their travel plans and remain prepared for changing conditions in the backcountry.
Anyone with information about Sahil Jilani’s whereabouts is urged to contact Great Smoky Mountains National Park officials by email.
Key Facts
- Missing person: Sahil Jilani, 24, of Texas
- Last seen: Around 8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 5
- Location last seen: Riverstone Campground in Townsend
- Vehicle found: Wednesday at the Abrams Falls Trailhead
- Description: 5’9″, 140 pounds, black hair, brown eyes
- Search efforts are ongoing in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- Anyone with information is asked to contact park officials.
