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Contact: Julena Campbell, 304-640-0724
Glen Jean, WV – Search crews have found the body of George Andrew Gross, 56, from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania near the Diamond Point area of New River Gorge National River. The cause of death remains under investigation. Gross had been reported missing over the weekend, after he told family members he was planning to hike in or around the park on Friday afternoon and did not contact them afterwards.
Rangers from New River Gorge National River were assisting the West Virginia State Police in the location of Gross. After his truck was found at the Fern Creek trailhead inside the park late Monday night, search operations were concentrated on the trails and cliffs of that area. Other agencies involved in the search included the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit, Fayette County Vertical Rescue Team, Fayetteville Fire Department, and Jan-Care Ambulance Service.
“Our condolences go out to the family and friends of Mr. Gross,” said park Superintendent Lizzie Watts. “We are glad to be able to help bring a small amount of closure to this part, and our thoughts are with them as they move through the difficult grieving process.”
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Last updated: January 16, 2018