Mystery Solved: "Abandoned" Atlas Truck on Lake Chatuge Was Just a Driver Enjoying Thanksgiving with Family

Travis Dockery

Mountain Buzz

Residents and passersby along Highway 64 east in Hayesville had been scratching their heads for days over a large Atlas Van Lines moving truck parked beside scenic Lake Chatuge. With no visible activity and the truck sitting idle through the Thanksgiving holiday, concerned citizens flooded the Clay County Sheriff’s Office with calls and messages.

On Thursday, Dec. 4, the Sheriff’s Office put the speculation to rest with a lighthearted social media post explaining the situation.

“After it had been parked for several days, we contacted the company as well as the driver and found that he was simply spending extended Thanksgiving holidays with family nearby,” the department wrote. “This truck was actually parked on TVA (Tennessee Valley Authority) property.”

The driver, whose name was not released, had apparently chosen the lakeside spot to extend his holiday visit with relatives in the area. Once the Sheriff’s Office confirmed everything was in order, no further action was needed.

“Thanks to all who have been concerned and patient in allowing this gentleman to spend time with his family,” the post concluded.