Deep Creek, N.C. – The National Park Service is asking for the public’s help following what officials described as an assault in the Deep Creek area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park late last month.
Assault Reported Near Deep Creek Picnic Area
According to a statement released by the park service on Jan. 9, the incident occurred around 5:40 p.m. on Dec. 22 near the Deep Creek Picnic Area, located on the North Carolina side of the park near Bryson City in Swain County.
Park officials said a person approached two vehicles believed to have been involved in a motor vehicle collision. As the individual approached, one vehicle — described as a white SUV — drove away from the scene.
Gun Reportedly Pointed at Individual
A second vehicle, described as a newer-model silver or gray four-door pickup truck with a lift kit and weighted North Carolina registration, motioned for the person to come closer. When the individual approached the pickup, the driver allegedly pointed a handgun at them.
The person immediately fled the area and reported hearing multiple gunshots coming from the location of the encounter.
Vehicles Flee Toward Bryson City
Investigators said both the white SUV and the pickup truck were later seen fleeing the scene toward Bryson City. A gray sedan believed to be associated with the group was also observed leaving the area around the same time.
Park officials have not released information indicating whether anyone was injured during the incident.
Suspect Description Released
The suspect was described as a thin male in his late teens or early 20s, with tan skin and a thin mustache, wearing a hooded jacket at the time of the incident.
Officials said the suspect was believed to be part of a group of approximately 10 people who were seen in the Deep Creek area for much of the late afternoon prior to the reported assault.
Park Officials Ask Visitors for Help
The National Park Service said no additional details are currently available but emphasized that information from other visitors is often critical in active investigations.
Anyone who was in the Deep Creek area during the late afternoon of Dec. 22, or who may have witnessed suspicious activity or vehicles matching the descriptions, is urged to contact the park service.
Great Smoky Mountains Remains Heavily Visited
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park spans more than 500,000 acres of rugged, mountainous terrain along the Western North Carolina–East Tennessee border. Despite disruptions from Tropical Storm Helene during peak fall foliage season, the park remained the most visited national park in the U.S., welcoming 12.1 million visitors in 2024.
