Law Enforcement Seeks Info on Nantahala Forest Rape Suspect

Sketch of rape suspect Credit: Macon County Sheriff Office

NEWS RELEASE –Macon County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), United States Forest Service (USFS), and the State Bureau of Investigations (SBI)


The Macon County Sheriff’s Office, the US Forest Service and the SBI are seeking information on a rape which occurred Sunday September 25, 2011, at approximately 4:00 PM in Macon County within the Nantahala National Forest. The incident occurred at the intersection of Forest Service Road (FSR) 711 and the Wayah Road, FSR 1310. A female driving through the area stopped to render aid to a person she believed was incapacitated who was lying beside the road. At that time a firearm was used to subdue the victim and she was allegedly forcibly raped.
Law enforcement authorities are seeking information and assistance in identifying a possible suspect. Authorities are looking for a white male, 6’0”, 200 pounds, between the ages of 30 and 40, having brown wavy short hair, no facial hair, green to blue eyes, having a deep voice and a fair complexion. The suspect was last seen wearing dark blue jeans and a medium blue shirt. The subject is armed and considered dangerous and may be carrying a backpack. No vehicle information is available at this time. The attached composite sketch was rendered to assist in identifying the assailant.


On the same date and approximate location a motor grader was vandalized and diesel was stolen. Earlier the same day, three individuals were observed around the motor grader that may have information relevant to the case. These individuals or persons knowing these individuals’ identities are asked to call law enforcement.


Persons having information to pass on to law enforcement may call the US Forest Service Special Agent at 828-231-0288, the Macon County Sheriff’s Office at 828-349-2104 or the SBI at 1-800-334-3000.