Body found at GSMNP campsite; Bear scavenging on remains
Backpackers in Great Smoky Mountain National Park found an unoccupied tent on Friday, Sept. 11 and, nearby, discovered what appeared to be human remains with a bear scavenging the area. Law enforcement and wildlife officials responded to the scene and identified the body as an out-of-state adult male. Park officials say they saw the bear “actively scavenging on the remains” and euthanized the animal.
The cause of death of the camper is currently unknown and under investigation. Campsite 82, the location of the incident, and Hazel Creek Trail will remain closed until further notice between the juncture with Cold Springs Gap Trail and Welch Ridge Trail, the park service said.
Hilton Head, SC considers ordinance to protect sea turtles
The Hilton Head Island Town Council will consider an ordinance banning beachside homes from disturbing sea turtles by casting light from their properties onto the beach, E&E News reports. Sea turtle hatchlings find the ocean by looking for the brightest light. When the homes shine light onto the beach, the turtles can become disoriented.
The ordinance would require beachside homeowners to install tinted windows, solar screens or light-blocking measures. Property owners could also commit to turning off lights from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. during the May-to-October nesting season. Town council will consider the ordinance in October.
Hiker seeking help for injured boyfriend found dead
A hiker in the mountains of north Georgia was found dead after setting off to seek help for her injured boyfriend, ABC News reports. The pair were hiking at Cochrans Falls last Friday when the man injured himself, Dawson County Fire Chief Danny Thompson told reporters. Rescuers located the man, who was taken to the hospital with head, back and knee injuries. He told officials that his girlfriend had gone for help.
A short time later, search and rescue crews found the woman’s body near the bottom of the falls. Authorities have not shared how she died and have not identified the couple, other than to say that they were in their 20s.
Photo: The view from Clingman’s Dome in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park just after the sun went down. Courtesy of Getty Images by RichardBarrow
