Search for Missing Hiker Enters Fifth Week at Blood Mountain

Staff Report

The search for Charles Hosch, who went missing while hiking the Appalachian Trail near Blood Mountain, has now entered its fifth week. Union County Emergency Management Agency (UCEMA) and the Union County Sheriff’s Office (UCSO) continue to investigate the case, which remains open, as search efforts persist in coordination with Mr. Hosch’s family.

Mr. Hosch was last known to be on the Appalachian Trail on November 11 at approximately 1:30 p.m. He was hiking a familiar section of the trail; one he had completed many times before. According to officials, his typical plan was to park at the Byron Herbert Reece trail access, hike up to the Appalachian Trail, continue to the Blood Mountain Shelter, and then return to his vehicle using the same route.

The Union County E911 Center received a missing person call on November 12, prompting an immediate investigation and large-scale search effort. Over the following 13 days, UCEMA and UCSO worked alongside more than 50 organizations, volunteers, and individuals from local, state, out-of-state, and federal agencies to conduct an extensive search of the Blood Mountain area. Despite thorough efforts covering trails, areas surrounding the trails, and other probable locations, no sign of Mr. Hosch was found.

Search resources included helicopters, drones, multiple search-and-rescue dog teams, Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) technology, thermal imaging, and numerous ground search teams. Many agencies and organizations also provided critical support, including food, drinks, supplies, equipment, and facilities to sustain the prolonged operation.

On November 25, after 13 consecutive days of continuous search operations, Union County officials paused major efforts, noting that all probable areas had been searched. Authorities stated that more definitive information was needed to identify new search locations. Since that time, several targeted search missions have been conducted in areas of interest. Some locations already searched continue to be rechecked to further rule them out and to maintain a continued presence in the area.

In addition to official efforts, Mr. Hosch’s family has organized and led their own private search operations with assistance from UCEMA. The family has gathered resources from across the southeastern United States to support the ongoing search. Additional information about these efforts is available at www.bringcharleshome.com.

UCEMA officials say they remain committed to locating Mr. Hosch and expressed deep gratitude to the many agencies, volunteers, and supporters who have contributed time, resources, and assistance throughout the operation.