Texas Hiker Found Dead in Great Smoky Mountains

A hiker from Texas has tragically been found dead three days after he went missing in Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains. His family suspects that he drowned after getting caught in strong hydraulic currents near a waterfall.

Sahil Jilani, a 24-year-old from Houston, was reported missing on October 5th. On that same day, his mother experienced an intense feeling that something was wrong. The family shared their heartache through an online fundraiser.

“With heavy hearts, we share the sudden and heartbreaking loss of our beloved brother, Sahil Jilani,” the fundraiser stated. “Our mother is in the hospital after hearing the news about losing her precious son, our little angel, and the most beautiful gift.”

Concerns grew among family and friends when Jilani failed to check in for several hours, and his location-sharing ceased, especially in an area known for lacking cell service.

“We were told to be patient, as hikers often lose contact in areas without coverage,” said Jilani’s sister, Asma Jilani Bustamante, who organized the fundraiser. “But as time passed and our fear intensified, we kept seeking help. Sahil knew how much his absence would worry us.”

After 72 hours of his disappearance, his vehicle was located in a parking lot. Subsequently, his phone, keys, and clothing were discovered near the falls. The following day, dive teams found his body in the waters of Abrams Falls.

The family believes that Jilani may have drowned after being trapped in the strong currents.

“Waterfalls are incredibly beautiful, and many people want to stand beneath them and feel the force of the falling water,” the family noted. “However, Abrams Falls drops about 25 feet into a deep pool where hydraulic currents can pull someone underwater, making escape difficult, even for skilled swimmers.”

The official cause of death has yet to be released.

Jilani recently became an uncle and was eager to spoil his new niece with gifts, while also hoping to teach her mixed martial arts and self-defense, sharing his love for fitness, according to Bustamante.

Officials from the National Park Service (NPS) caution that the Smoky Mountains include narrow roads, sharp curves, and steep cliffs. Furthermore, there are no lifeguarded swimming areas in the park.

“Swimming and tubing are discouraged,” the NPS advised. “Additionally, do not attempt to climb to the top of a waterfall, as rocks can be extremely slippery and have led to serious injuries or fatalities in the past.”

National Park Service officials have been contacted for additional comments.