TUCKER COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A 21-year-old Ohio man was found dead Monday following a search and rescue operation in Tucker County after he was swept away by swift-moving water while hiking with a group.
According to West Virginia State Police, Tucker County 911 notified West Virginia Natural Resources Police around 11:39 a.m. Sunday, October 11, of a missing hiker near the Red Creek Trail and Fisher Springs Trail.
The missing hiker was identified as Thomas Donnelly, 21, of Cincinnati, Ohio.
Donnelly was among eight members of the University of Cincinnati Mountaineering Club who had been hiking and camping in the area since Friday, October 9.
Police said the group was attempting to cross South Red Creek near its confluence with Fisher Springs Run when they encountered high water levels and strong currents caused by heavy rainfall.
During the crossing, Donnelly lost his footing and was swept downstream.
Trooper D.M. Tate responded to assist with search and rescue efforts alongside members of the Harman Volunteer Fire Department.
Initial efforts to locate Donnelly were unsuccessful, and search operations were suspended due to approaching severe weather and diminishing daylight.
Search efforts resumed Monday, October 12.
According to a supplemental update from State Police, troopers located Donnelly deceased in the search area at approximately 2 p.m. Monday.
Authorities notified his family following the discovery.
West Virginia State Police said additional information will be released as it becomes available.
