The skeletal remains found by hunters in a wooded region near Athens, Tennessee, have been identified as belonging to a Georgia man who had gone missing in 2016.
David Dewayne Abbott was reported missing on June 23, 2016 in Fort Oglethorpe, Tennessee. He was 43 years old at the time of his disappearance. Abbott had a history of schizophrenia and other health-related issues and did not have his medication with him. The last recorded sighting of him was when his fiancée saw him leaving in his truck from Ringgold, Georgia on June 22. His truck, with keys and phone inside, was located a few days later less than a mile from where his remains were eventually discovered.
A comprehensive forensic autopsy was performed to confirm the identity of the remains. Further validation was provided by retired detective Steve Blevins, who had taken the lead in the initial investigations surrounding Abbott’s disappearance back in 2016. Despite his retirement, Blevins had not let the case go cold and remained persistent in his pursuit to find answers for the Abbott family.
The circumstances of Abbott’s disappearance and eventual death remain unclear. However, based on the preliminary assessments of the investigators, there appear to be no indicators of foul play. It is postulated that Abbott may have ventured into the woods soon after leaving his truck and met his end there. The exact cause of his death, as well as the reasons why his remains were undiscovered for such an extended period of time, especially considering the proximity to a road and a business, are aspects still under exploration.
The discovery has elicited mixed reactions from Abbott’s family members. While there is a sense of closure, there is also profound grief and bewilderment. Abbott’s fiancée and stepdaughter publicly voiced their sorrow and expressed perplexity about how his remains could remain undetected for so many years, especially so close to areas frequented by the public.
Sheriff’s comments highlighted the commendable work of retired detective Blevins. Blevins was praised for his unyielding commitment to the case, which ultimately provided the Abbott family with some answers. The diligence and dedication shown by Blevins have been cited as exemplifying the spirit and ethos of law enforcement professionals, who often go above and beyond their call of duty, post-retirement, to ensure justice and closure for affected families.
