National Park After Dark 352: The National Forest Serial Killer
Feb 2, 2026
A chilling pattern of hiker disappearances across southeastern public lands tied to a man who blended into trail culture. Investigators follow witness sightings, van and dumpster clues, and forensic evidence that connect multiple killings. Legal battles over crime scene photos spur a new privacy law. Reflections on how resistance, evidence, and preparedness played roles in catching a predator.
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Elderly Hikers Vanish In Pisgah
- John and Irene Bryant, an active retired couple, disappeared after hiking in Pisgah National Forest in October 2007.
- Investigators later found Irene murdered and Jack missing with suspicious ATM activity linked to a yellow-jacketed man.
Nurse Found Decapitated In Florida Forest
- Cheryl Hodges Dunlap, a 46-year-old nurse and Sunday school teacher, vanished while hiking Leon Sinks in Apalachicola National Forest.
- Her remains were later found decapitated and hands removed, with burning at a nearby fire ring containing her hair.
Cross-State Pattern Emerges
- Separate disappearances across states showed similar patterns: yellow jacket sightings, ATM withdrawals, and dogs used to lure trust.
- Linking these behaviors helped investigators see a multi-state serial pattern rather than isolated crimes.
