Great Smoky Mountains National Park officials announced new developments on Tuesday, Aug. 21 in the case of a Michael Giovanni Cocchini, a man thought to be missing in the Park since March of this year.
Remains found on Monday, Aug. 20 may be linked to the missing person case of Michael Giovanni Cocchini, a man thought to be missing in the Park since March of this year. (NPS Photo)
On Friday, Aug. 17, park employees discovered items thought to belong to Cocchini near the area where his vehicle was originally found parked along Newfound Gap Road. On Saturday and Sunday, searchers combed the area where clothing and other items consistent with those last seen on Cocchini were located. On Monday, Aug. 20, human remains were discovered in the area, but have not yet been positively identified. Cocchini’s family has been notified of the new developments.
The remains are being sent to the medical examiner for analysis and possible identification.
– NPS
