Missing Nashville Man Ryan Lakes Found Deceased in Great Smoky Mountains

A 21-year-old Nashville man missing for days has been found dead. The National Park Service confirmed Ryan Lakes’s body was discovered in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on Sunday. The search ended in the Big Creek area on the North Carolina side of the park.

Lakes had been missing since last Thursday. His vehicle was located near the park earlier, prompting a large-scale search operation.

Details of the Search and Recovery Operation

The National Park Service initiated the search after finding Lakes’ car. According to a report from CBS affiliate WLVT-TV, forest rangers discovered the parked vehicle. This finding narrowed the focus of the intensive search effort.

The multi-agency operation involved sheriff’s offices from both Tennessee and North Carolina. Nashville police, the U.S. Forest Service, and a dedicated search and rescue team also assisted. WBTV3 reported on the collaborative effort that ultimately located the young man.

Unanswered Questions and Park Profile

The cause of Ryan Lakes’ death remains unknown. Officials have stated that an autopsy is pending. This is standard procedure in such investigations to determine the exact circumstances.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States. It spans the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. The park is known for its vast, rugged wilderness and mist-covered Appalachian peaks.

The discovery of Ryan Lakes brings a tragic close to the search. The investigation into the death of the missing Nashville man continues as authorities await official results.

Info at your fingertips

Who was Ryan Lakes?

Ryan Lakes was a 21-year-old man from Nashville, Tennessee. The National Park Service described him as 5’5″ tall with brown hair and hazel eyes.

Where was Ryan Lakes found?

Search teams found his body in the Big Creek area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This section of the park is located in North Carolina.

How long was Ryan Lakes missing?

He was reported missing on a Thursday. His body was discovered the following Sunday, after a multi-day search effort.

What caused Ryan Lakes’ death?

The cause of death has not been released. Authorities have stated that an autopsy is pending to determine the exact circumstances.

Which agencies were involved in the search?

The search included the National Park Service, sheriff’s offices from two states, and other rescue teams. Nashville police and the U.S. Forest Service also provided assistance.

Trusted Sources: National Park Service, WLVT-TV (CBS Knoxville), WBTV3.