STONE MOUNTAIN, Ga. — The discovery of a burnt body near the summit of Stone Mountain, located just outside the bustling city of Atlanta, has spurred an investigation by authorities. On Saturday morning, a hiker came upon the body and promptly alerted police by dialing 911.
John Bankhead, spokesperson for the Stone Mountain Park Police, relayed that the hiker did not provide any contact details to the dispatchers. The remains are believed to belong to an adult male in his 20s or 30s, although the hiker’s path was not a usual trail frequented by climbers.
“This particular area does not see a lot of foot traffic,” Bankhead remarked, referring to the spot where the body was found. The unusual nature of the location adds a layer of complexity to the authorities’ investigation.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has taken on the case to uncover the circumstances surrounding the individual’s death. To ascertain the cause of death more precisely, the body has been transported to the DeKalb County medical examiner’s office for a detailed examination.
Stone Mountain, a notable landmark near Atlanta, features an immense carving depicting Confederate figures such as Gen. Robert E. Lee, Confederate President Jefferson Davis, and Gen. Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson on its north face, which attracts many visitors annually. However, the location of the body was far from the well-trodden paths typically used by hikers ascending the mountain.