BLAIRSVILLE, GA — After nearly two weeks of intensive searching, Union County authorities have paused major operations in the effort to locate missing hiker Charles Hosch, who disappeared Nov. 11 in the Blood Mountain area of the Appalachian Trail.
In a joint press release Tuesday, the Union County Sheriff’s Office and Union County Fire & EMA said Monday marked the final full operational period of the active search. Officials say crews have completed 12 full operational periods using “local, state, and federal resources from all over the state and neighboring states.”
Searchers have covered the majority of targeted areas by aircraft, drones, K-9 teams and ground crews. Despite the extensive effort, no definitive signs of Hosch have been found.
“We have paused operations as of November 25th, and there will be no major operations until we have more definitive information or indications that point us in a different direction or area to search,” the release said.
Search ‘not over’
Authorities emphasized that the search is not over — only scaled back. If new information is received by the sheriff’s office or emergency management, teams will be mobilized immediately.
“Some areas, which may be new or that have already been searched, may be searched to continue to rule those areas out and to keep a continued presence in the search area,” officials said.
Hosch, 67, was last seen on Nov. 11 in Gainesville, Georgia, where he was visiting his brother, according to his law partner Kate Morris.
“They had breakfast together. He had intended to take a nature walk on the trail that he grew up hiking on. Apparently, he made it to the trail. His car was found there,” she said.
Hosch was last seen near Blood Mountain, one of the most heavily traveled stretches of the Appalachian Trail in Georgia. The search has drawn crews from multiple counties and agencies, along with support from the Appalachian Trail community.
Union County officials expressed gratitude to all who have assisted with the effort.
“We are extremely thankful for all the assistance that we have received in this search and for all those who offered assistance. We are also grateful for the support from everyone during this stressful and difficult event,” the release said.
Anyone with information on Hosch’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Union County Sheriff’s Office.
