Bryce Evans, a 23-year-old combat medic and pre-med student, was found dead in a remote section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on August 5, 2023. His disappearance and death have baffled his family, friends, and authorities. Here is what we know so far about the tragic case of Bryce Evans.
The Disappearance
Bryce Evans was last seen and heard from on July 31, 2023, when he was driving from Knoxville, Tennessee to Charlotte, North Carolina. He had an internship at the University of North Carolina and was supposed to sign in there. However, he never arrived at his destination.
He told his sister, Analise Evans, that he planned to work out at the gym at the University of Tennessee before driving to Charlotte. But there are no records of him ever checking in to the gym or signing in to his internship. His phone last pinged in Cherokee, North Carolina and then went straight to voicemail.
His family reported him missing on August 1, 2023, after they could not reach him. They posted on social media seeking help and offering a reward for any information. They described him as an Eagle Scout and a member of the Tennessee National Guard who loved the outdoors.
The Discovery
On August 4, 2023, two women who made a wrong turn found Evans’ car, a 2017 Grey Nissan Altima, in a remote part of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. They notified the authorities, who closed off the area and conducted a search.
On August 5, 2023, searchers found Evans’ body about 20 yards off trail, approximately 1.5 miles from the Balsam Mountain Trailhead parking area. He was wearing hiking boots and carrying a backpack.
The Investigation
The authorities have announced that the investigation into Evans’ cause of death is ongoing. They have not released any details about the condition of his body or any signs of foul play. They have also not revealed any motive or suspects for his death.
According to Fox News, Evans was severely beaten and had a bullet-like wound in the back of his head. However, this has not been confirmed by the official sources.
Some media outlets have speculated that Evans may have been involved in some illegal activity or had some enemies who wanted him dead. However, his family and friends have denied any such possibility and said that he was a kind and caring person who had no enemies.
The Reaction
The death of Bryce Evans has shocked and saddened his family, friends, and community. They have expressed their grief and condolences on social media and held vigils and memorials for him.
His sister, Analise Evans, wrote on Facebook: “My brother Bryce has been found deceased. Thank you to everyone who helped us search for him and prayed for us during this difficult time. He was my best friend and I will miss him every day.”
His friend and colleague, Jane Katherine Marley Heinold, wrote on Twitter: “SPC Bryce Evans was one of my combat medics. He was an exceptional soldier and a wonderful human being. I am heartbroken by his loss. Rest in peace, brother.”
His university, the University of Tennessee, issued a statement: “We are deeply saddened by the news of Bryce Evans’ passing. He was a valued member of our campus community and a promising student in our pre-med program. We extend our sympathies to his family and friends during this difficult time.”
The Conclusion
The case of Bryce Evans remains unsolved and mysterious. His cause of death is still unknown and under investigation. His family and friends are still seeking answers and justice for him.
Bryce Evans was a young man with a bright future ahead of him. He had a passion for medicine and serving his country. He had a loving family and loyal friends. He had a zest for life and adventure.
He will be remembered as a hero and a legend by those who knew him.
