Texas Hiker Dies After Being Found in Smoky Mountains

Sahil Jilani, a 24-year-old Texas man, was found dead in Great Smoky Mountains National Park after he went missing during a visit to Tennessee, according to his family and the National Park Service. His vehicle was later located near the Abrams Falls trailhead. The National Park Service said Jilani was last seen at Riverstone Campground in Townsend, Tennessee, on Monday, October 5, at 8pm local time.

Authorities found his vehicle two days later at the Abrams Falls trailhead. Jilani's sister, Asma Jilani Bustamante, shared news of his death on social media on Friday, October 9, according to KHOU. She later said their mother was hospitalized after learning about the death.

"With extremely heavy hearts, we share the news that the search for Sahil has ended, and he has passed away. Please keep our family in your prayers and respect our privacy as we navigate this unimaginable loss." said Asma Jilani Bustamante, Sahil Jilani's sister.

Bustamante said the family believes Jilani drowned after being caught in strong currents near the waterfall. She described the incident as a sudden accident that became critical within moments. "While we await official reports, we believe Sahil tragically drowned after becoming caught in powerful hydraulic currents near the waterfall." said Asma Jilani Bustamante, Sahil Jilani's sister.

A fundraising campaign for Sahil Jilani had collected $10,581 toward a $41.2K goal, according to the campaign details cited in the report.