24-Year-Old Hiker Found Dead After Disappearance in Great Smoky Mountains

A 24-year-old hiker was found dead in Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains three days after going missing. Sahil Jilani, from Houston, Texas, was reported missing in the national park last Monday and was discovered deceased on Thursday near a waterfall. His family suspects he may have drowned, although the official cause of death has not yet been confirmed, according to the New York Post. Jilani reportedly went hours without checking in, and his phone's location sharing feature was not functioning due to lack of cellular service in the area, as stated on the family’s GoFundMe page. Authorities located his car at the Abrams Falls parking lot on Wednesday and found his clothes, keys, and cell phone near the waterfall, which has a depth of 20 to 25 feet. His body was recovered the following day. The family believes he drowned after becoming trapped in strong hydraulic currents. Jilani’s sister, Asma Jilani Bustamante, described him as a kind and generous person who aimed to support his family. She noted that he had recently become an uncle and was looking forward to spending time with his niece. Following his death, Jilani’s mother was hospitalized due to the emotional distress. According to the National Park Service, ten fatalities occurred in the Great Smoky Mountains last year. Officials caution against getting too close to the edges of waterfalls, which can be slippery, and highlight the dangers associated with navigating narrow mountain roads and steep drop-offs. They recommend that hikers research their planned activities thoroughly and carry alternative communication devices due to limited cell service in the area.