Monday, October 12, 2026·Focal News

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Houston family mourns 24-year-old recovered from water at Abrams Falls

Searchers found Sahil Jilani, 24, in the water near Abrams Falls in Great Smoky Mountains National Park after he disappeared during a hike. His family is awaiting official findings and is urging visitors to take waterfall hazards and cellphone dead zones seriously.

Houston family mourns 24-year-old recovered from water at Abrams Falls
A 24-year-old hiker who disappeared in Great Smoky Mountains National Park was found dead in the water near Abrams Falls, his family said, ending a dayslong search in Blount County, Tennessee. Sahil Jilani was last seen at about 8 p.m. Monday at Riverstone Campground in Townsend, park officials said. His car was found Wednesday at the Abrams Falls trailhead. Divers recovered his body the following day, according to his family. His phone, keys and clothing were found near the falls. The family believes Jilani may have drowned after encountering strong currents, but official reports were still pending as of Monday, Oct. 12. The cause and circumstances of his death had not been confirmed. Jilani’s sister, Asma Jilani Bustamante, said the family became worried when his location sharing stopped and he failed to check in. She said they requested a welfare check from park rangers the next day and continued seeking help as their concern grew. According to Bustamante, they were told hikers commonly lose cellphone service in the area. Bustamante described her brother as generous and devoted to his family. He had hoped to help his parents financially and was excited to become an uncle, she said. The family is seeking donations to help bring Jilani’s body to Houston, Texas, and cover expenses connected with his death, including care for their mother, who was hospitalized after his death, Bustamante said. The family also wants to raise awareness about water safety. Bustamante urged visitors to heed posted warnings near waterfalls, share trip plans and prepare for areas without cellphone coverage. She said people hiking in remote places should consider carrying a satellite communication device.

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