Tue Sep 10 14:07:00 UTC 2024: ## Appalachian Trail Hiker Found Dead Near Tinker Cliffs
**Botetourt County, VA -** The Botetourt County Sheriff’s Office has identified the hiker found dead on the Appalachian Trail near Tinker Cliffs on Saturday as Thomas Vanetten, a 67-year-old man from Schenectady, New York.
Vanetten was discovered lying face down on the trail by a group of runners. The Sheriff’s Office reported that the area where his body was found, near Lambert’s Meadow Shelter and Andy Layne Trail, was steep and rugged.
Vanetten’s body has been transported to the state medical examiner’s office, and the cause of death is still under investigation. Lt. David Moyer of the Botetourt County Sheriff’s Office stated that there were “no obvious signs of trauma or a fall,” but the medical examiner will ultimately determine the manner and cause of death.
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy has offered condolences to Vanetten’s family and friends and emphasized that there are no ongoing dangers to hikers on the trail. The Conservancy urges hikers to familiarize themselves with backcountry safety practices and emergency procedures, which are available on their website.
The Botetourt County Sheriff’s Office has stated that no foul play is suspected in Vanetten’s death.
First Piper 