Remains found in Smokies identified as those of missing hiker
By Joel Davis | (joeld@thedailytimes.com)
Human remains recently found in Great Smoky Mountains National
Park have been identified as those belonging to Michael Giovanni Cocchini, who went missing in the
park in March.
Investigators worked with the Sevier County Medical Examiner’s Office, Knoxville Regional Forensic Center, and the Knox County Sheriffs Forensic Unit to make the official identification through dental records.
There will be no way for Park investigators to determine an exact cause of death, but evidence found at the scene indicates that Cocchini had intentions of taking his own life.
Foul play is not suspected.
Investigators worked with the Sevier County Medical Examiner’s Office, Knoxville Regional Forensic Center, and the Knox County Sheriffs Forensic Unit to make the official identification through dental records.
There will be no way for Park investigators to determine an exact cause of death, but evidence found at the scene indicates that Cocchini had intentions of taking his own life.
Foul play is not suspected.
