News Release

Remains of Lost Hiker Discovered in Buffalo National River

Search and Rescue Team

NPS

News Release Date: June 18, 2020

Contact: NPS Investigative Services Branch, [phone]

Northwest Arkansas – At approximately 11:00 a.m., June 17^th, 2020, search and rescue personnel discovered the remains of lost hiker Thomas Reid in the Sneeds Creek drainage area within the Ponca Wilderness area of Buffalo National River, south of Compton.

Thomas Reid and his brother began hiking along the Center Point Trail the morning of Saturday, June 13^th, 2020. After veering off to the Sneeds Creek Trail, Reid reportedly injured his leg, and his brother went to get help. Reid was last seen at approximately 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 13^th, 2020. Upon returning to the area, Reid was not found.

The National Park Service lead a Search and Rescue operation that began Saturday evening, with ground and aerial searches conducted of the area surrounding the last known location of Reid. Special Agents with the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch opened a missing person investigation in coordination with the Newton County Sheriff's Office and Arkansas State Police.

As with all fatalities that occur within the park, an investigation will be completed by the National Park Service to determine cause of death. The National Park Service thanks the public for providing tips to aid the search for Reid.

Responding rescue teams and those who have provided resources included Buffalo National River Search and Rescue, Arkansas Alliance Bloodhound Search Specialist, Newton County Sheriff Department, Benton County Sheriff Department, Arkansas Forestry Commission, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Arkansas State Police, Mennonite Disaster Services, Compton Fire Department, and the County Line Baptist Church.

Park rangers urge hikers to be aware of hazards and be physically prepared for all attempted trips. The Center Point Trail is steep and rugged. It is not a hike that is recommended during hotter times of the year. Hiking information, including trail conditions and weather, can be obtained on the park's website at https://www.nps.gov/buff/planyourvisit/index.htm, or by contacting a park ranger at [phone].