Great Smoky Mountains National Park Rangers have identified the deceased hiker found at Tricorner Knob as Richard Lemarr, 50, from Knoxville, Tenn. Due to the remote location and inclement weather, Tennessee Highway Patrol successfully evacuated the deceased on Friday, Jan. 18 using their hoist helicopter.
Lemarr was discovered deceased at Tricorner Knob Shelter by Rangers early Wednesday afternoon, Jan. 16. Lemarr left Newfound Gap on Saturday morning intending to hike 30 miles along the Appalachian Trail to Davenport Gap in North Carolina. Rangers have remained at Tricorner Knob Shelter since the discovery and the shelter has been closed to the public.
Park Rangers are investigating the incident with the assistance of the Swain County Medical Examiner’s Office. The cause of death does not appear to be suspicious.
– NPS
