A 24-year-old Texas hiker who disappeared in Great Smoky Mountains National Park was found dead near one of the park’s most popular waterfalls after a dayslong search, leaving family members to believe he may have been caught in dangerous currents known to exist in the area.
Sahil Jilani, of the Houston area, was last seen Oct. 5 near the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in eastern Tennessee. His body was recovered near Abrams Falls on Oct. 8, three days after he was reported missing, according to park officials and family members. While officials have not released a cause of death, family members said they believe he drowned after becoming trapped in powerful hydraulic currents near the falls.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park announced Jilani’s death in a social media post and offered condolences to his family and friends. USA TODAY contacted the park Oct. 14 seeking additional information about his death but did not immediately receive a response.
Search led rescuers to Abrams Falls
Authorities and search-and-rescue crews began looking for Jilani on Oct. 7, two days after he was last seen.
That same day, searchers located his vehicle at the Abrams Falls trailhead, roughly 15 miles southwest of the campground where he had last been seen. His body was discovered in the water near Abrams Falls on Oct. 8.
The waterfall is among the park’s best-known destinations, drawing hikers to a scenic pool below a 25-foot cascade.
Family believes dangerous currents may have played a role
While investigators have not publicly said how Jilani died, his family believes he may have drowned after becoming trapped in hazardous water near the waterfall.
In a GoFundMe fundraiser created after his death, his sister, Asma Jilani, said her mother sensed something was wrong when hours passed without hearing from him.
“His location sharing had stopped in an area without cellular service,” she wrote. “Trusting our mother’s intuition, we contacted park rangers the following day to request a welfare check.”
According to the family, rangers initially advised them that it was not uncommon for hikers and campers to lose contact in areas without cell service. As concern grew, the family continued seeking help.
“While we await official reports, we believe Sahil tragically drowned after becoming caught in powerful hydraulic currents near the waterfall,” his sister wrote.
She noted that the water below Abrams Falls can appear calm but contains a steep drop and currents capable of pulling swimmers underwater.
The National Park Service has similarly warned visitors about the dangers at the site.
The agency says Abrams Creek “plunges 25 feet over a ledge of sandstone into a deep, picturesque pool,” and warns that swimming is strongly discouraged because of an undertow and other hazardous conditions.
Hiker Sahil Jilani, 24, who was last seen alive at the Riverstone Campground in Townsend, Tennessee on Oct. 5, 2026.
Family hopes tragedy serves as warning
Jilani’s sister urged travelers and outdoor enthusiasts to take extra precautions in remote areas.
“Share your travel plans, prepare for cellular dead zones, and consider carrying a satellite communication device when exploring remote areas,” she wrote.
She added that it is always better for loved ones to return home disappointed after cutting a trip short than to not return home at all.
A devoted son, brother and new uncle
As his family mourns, they remember Jilani as someone deeply devoted to those around him.
Shortly before his death, he became an uncle and was excited to spoil his new niece, according to his sister. He had hoped to teach her mixed martial arts and self-defense, reflecting his passion for fitness.
He also cared deeply for his parents. His sister said he hoped to help his mother retire in the coming years and assist with dental work their father needed.
After learning of his death, his mother was hospitalized, the family said.
As of Oct. 14, more than $18,000 had been raised toward a $41,200 fundraising goal. The family said the money will help cover uncovered medical expenses, grief counseling, transportation costs and efforts to promote water-safety awareness.
His sister described him as “one of those special souls” whose impact on others will endure long after his death.
“Sometimes, God sends special souls into our lives,” she wrote. “They may not stay forever, but the love, happiness, and beautiful memories they leave behind remain in our hearts for a lifetime. Sahil was one of those special souls.”
Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAY’s trending team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia – the 757. Email her at sdmartin@usatoday.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Missing hiker found dead near Smoky Mountains falls
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