ANDREWS, N.C. (NCN News) – An Andrews man who was reported missing earlier in the week was found dead Saturday (June 6), as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances.
Courtesy Cherokee County, N.C. Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.
In a Facebook post, The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office stated it has been searching for 52-year-old Brett Austin Phillips of Andrews after he was reported missing by family members.
On Saturday morning, family members received information from a friend of Mr. Phillips regarding an area off Tatham Gap Road in the U.S. Forest Service property that Mr. Phillips was known to frequent. Family members traveled to the area and located Mr. Phillips and his vehicle approximately one-tenth of a mile off the roadway along a trail.
The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office was immediately notified, and investigators, patrol deputies, and administrative personnel responded to the scene. An investigation into Mr. Phillips’ death is ongoing. Currently, no foul play is suspected; however, the investigation remains active pending the results of an examination by the North Carolina Medical Examiner’s Office.
In a statement, Sheriff Chris Wood stated the he “and the members of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office extend their deepest condolences to Mr. Phillips’ family and loved ones during this difficult time. We ask our community to keep them in your thoughts and prayers.”
The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Andrews Police Department, the Valleytown Fire Department, the US Forestry Service Police and others.