Forest service seeks camper
U.S. Forest Service law enforcement officials have released a picture of a man they believe may have information about the Linville Gorge wildfire, which is now 100 percent contained after burning nearly 2,600 acres. They are hoping the public can help identify him.
Officials believe the man camped in the Table Rock picnic area on Veterans Day and may have information that would help the investigation. The man is believed to have been with a group of other campers and may play the guitar. Officials say there was a truck in the area they think is a white, 2007 to 2009 Dodge Ram truck, possibly a sport model.
Anyone with information concerning this person or the group camping at the Table Rock picnic area is asked to call Law Enforcement Officer Jason Crisp at 828.442.2470. Investigators are still trying to find the cause of the fire. A reward may be offered for substantial information.
The Linville Gorge area in the Grandfather Ranger District is now completely open, including the Linville Gorge Picnic Area and all trails. Visitors to the area may still see fire crews monitoring the situation, and anyone using campfires is urged to use extreme caution.