Buffalo National River Search and Rescue volunteers searching for missing hiker

Newton County, Arkansas – The Newton County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a missing hiker about 9 p.m. on October 28.

On Thursday, October 27, Clinton “Preston” Smith, 67, of Baton Rogue, Louisiana, was reported missing after failing to show up for a scheduled trip on the Hemmed-In-Hollow Trail.

Mr. Smith was last spotted sporting a black shirt and blue jeans.

Search efforts are being conducted by representatives of the sheriff’s office in collaboration with park rangers, volunteers from Buffalo National River Search and Rescue, Mennonite Disaster Services, and the Arkansas Alliance of Bloodhound Search Specialists.

The search was momentarily halted due to rain, and no more volunteers are required at this time.

Please call (888) 692-1162 to reach the emergency dispatch team at Buffalo National River if you know anything regarding Mr. Smith’s whereabouts.

For example, the Hemmed-in-Hollow Trail is difficult and steep; park rangers advised trekkers to be physically fit before beginning any hike.

On the park’s website or by calling a park ranger at (870) 439-2502, you can find information on hiking.