[at-l] Playing Coosa Here---

[lbooher at pure.net (Leslie Booher)]

Anyone have any more info on this situation?  anklebear
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Burke County: Florida hiker still missing 

On May 19, a Florida man parked his vehicle at the Linville Falls campground. 

He has been missing ever since. 

According to police officials, Philip A. Duane Sr., 68, of Ocala, Fla. left a note with the campground host stating that he would be hiking on the Appalachian Trail and would return to the campground on Saturday, May 22. 

According to Hansel, the second indication were two notes left inside Duane's vehicle. A day planner and calender had Appalachian Trail marked for May 19-22. 

The National Park Service has been looking into his disappearance since he failed to return to the campsite. 

Left at the site was a brand new Mitsubishi Gallant with temporary tags. 

Inside the vehicle were Duane's belongings, including a cell phone and business suits. 

"There was no indication [by his appearance or belongings] that he was hiking," said Hansel. 

Hansel said Duane was approximately six-feet tall and a heavy smoker - a habit not typical of trail hikers. 

Officials have eliminated as much as they can that Duane is in the immediate area. 

No foul play is expected, but nothing is being ruled out at this time. 

On July 1, North Carolina Project Life Saver and Stokes County Rescue Team participated in a thorough search of the area with both search and rescue and cadaver dogs. The search resulted in no additional information. 

Most recently, July 25, officials underwent a full search of the area after an investigation by the National Park Service. Again, the search resulted in no additional findings. 

The National Park Service requests that if anyone knows a Philip Duane, or has had any contact with him, to please contact their office. Any inquiries should be made to Park Ranger Ben Hansel with the National Park Service at (828) 765-6082.