Patrick Madura

Entered by Joss Leal

Case Details

Found Deceased Cause of Death: Undetermined / Unreleased

According to source,

An autopsy was conducted Tuesday on an Illinois man found dead at a backcountry campsite in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A bear was euthanized for scavenging on his remains.

Park officials said Patrick Madura, 43, of Elgin, Illinois, had a backcountry reservation for a multi-night trip. He was scheduled to stay at campsite 82, where his remains were found, on Wednesday, September 9, 2020. Hikers discovered his body on Friday, September 11, 2020.

Madura’s reservation was for only one person, and rangers found only one tent and sleeping bag at the campsite.

His body was taken to the North Carolina office of the Chief Medical Examiner, located in Raleigh. Park officials said it could take several weeks to months to get the results.

When the rangers came to investigate Madura’s death, they euthanized the black bear that was scavenging his remains, because they don’t want the animals to associate people with food.

Officials have not released the cause of Madura’s death.

Though black bears are very common in the Smokies, an attack on humans is very rare.

Distinguishing Marks

Not Available

Profession / Education

Not Available

Investigative Details

Foul Play Suspected: Unknown / Undisclosed
Suicide Suspected: Unknown / Undisclosed
Cause of Death: Undetermined / Unreleased

Significant Dates

Reported Missing: No Date Available
Date Found: Friday, September 11, 2020 (4 years ago)

Points of Interest

POIs

Campsite 82

Last Known Location

Campsite 82

Body Found

Viewers since 1/2/2024

Monday, January 8, 2024 (1 year ago)

Missing NPF Public Identification Number (MPID) 9952

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