A hiker was found dead on the Appalachian Trail in Botetourt County on Saturday, and investigators do not believe foul play was involved.
The body of Thomas Vanetten, 67, of Schenectady, New York, was found on the trail near Lambert’s Meadow shelter and Andy Layne Trail, according to multiple news outlets.
The Botetourt County emergency communications center received a call at approximately 9 a.m. on Sept. 7 reporting a deceased individual on the trail. He was found in a “steep and rugged” area of the trail, according to a statement from the Botetourt County Sheriff’s Office.
Nothing suspicious was found at the scene to indicate foul play, the sheriff’s office said.
Vanetten’s body was sent to the state medical examiner.
Appalachian Trail: Andy Layne Trail and Lamberts Meadow
The Andy Layne Trail takes hikers to the top of Tinker Cliffs. The hike from the trailhead is approximately 3.8 miles each way. The summit offers a view of the Catawba Valley, Catawba Mountain and McAfee Knob.
The Lamberts Meadow shelter was built in 1972. A stream is available 0.05 miles away, according to the Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club. The water supply, however, is not reliable in late summer or periods of drought, according to the club. However, water is available in a camping area nearby.
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Crystal Graham
