The search for a missing hiker in the Blue Ridge Mountains has ended with a tragic discovery. Officials in Burke County say, a search for Justin Lobdell was being conducted in the Linville Gorge area of the Pisgah National Forest.
Lobdell had been reported missing to the Black Mountain Police Department, November 2nd. Then this past Sunday, an off duty deputy from Mitchell County found Lobdell's vehicle near the Pine Gap trailhead.
On Tuesday, Lobdell was found dead, about a quarter mile from the trail head. The Medical Examiner's Office is examining the body to determine more details surrounding his death.
