Hiker found dead on Appalachian Trail
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
It appeared James J. Dutton had stopped for a rest. Poles in hand, pack still on his back, the Illinois man's lifeless body was discovered by local hikers Monday afternoon on the Appalachian Trail, just west of Blood Mountain.
"There doesn't appear to be any signs of foul play," said Darren Martin, an investigator with the Lumpkin County Sheriff's Office. The county's coroner believes Dutton, 54, died of natural causes.
"His family has a history of heart problems, so a heart attack is likely what happened," said Ronald Fortner, Lumpkin County Coroner's Office investigator.
Fortner told the AJC Dutton had been dead 6 to 8 hours earlier. He was not reported missing.
"The materials he had on him indicated this wasn't his first rodeo," Martin said. "He was packed for an overnight stay, at least."
Inside ajc.com
Atlanta day trip getaways
Escape from the grind using our list of destinations that require only a tank of gas and a sense of adventure.
Essence of music
Music industry veteran Sylvia Rhone and Kelly Rowland were honored at the Essence Black Women in Music event.
Lady in red
Actress Minka Kelly is among the celebrities who walked the Heart Truth red dress fashion show in New York.
Pass the Haterade
Forbes' list of most disliked athletes is out, and Atlantans will find a familiar face tied for No. 1.
Is that really Lindsay?
Lindsay Lohan arrived at amfAR's annual kickoff to Fashion Week looking not so fresh-faced.
V-Day with the Angels
Victoria's Secret Angels celebrate Valentine's Day while showing off some the lingerie store's goods.
Services » Find the right people for the job
From our news partners
- Gallery: Week in photos
- Charlotte to attempt new world record for most people dressed as Waldo
- Necklace flushed down toilet returned months later
- Hold the mystery meat; military food gets upgrade
- Westboro Baptist Church to stage anti-gay protest at Powell boys' funeral
- Family of girl killed by dogs awarded $20K
- Nevada gaming revenues increase 2.8 percent in 2011; Strip figures up 5.1 percent
- Teen stabs grandmother over 90 times, wanted to upset uncle
- 20 most anticipated movies for 2012
- Social Security: Valentine's Day reminder of benefits
