Manhunt ongoing in Shenandoah National Park for individual who vanished last Saturday
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Robert "Bob" Bieri, a 61-year-old hiker, was found deceased on July 7, 2025, in Shenandoah National Park, two days after he went missing.
Bieri, a popular hiker, was last seen off-trail near Lewis Falls, a well-loved hiking spot with a 3.3-mile moderate loop trail and a 990-foot elevation gain. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a short-sleeved red shirt, green shorts, a fanny pack, glasses, and tennis shoes. He stood at 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighed 205 pounds, and had grey hair and brown eyes.
Upon learning of Bieri's disappearance, Shenandoah National Park immediately launched a full-scale search operation. The park's Search and Rescue personnel led the efforts, with assistance from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management and Virginia State Police. Anyone with information about Bieri's whereabouts was urged to contact the park's Communications Center at (540) 999-3422.
After two days of relentless search, the body of Robert Bieri was found near Lewis Falls, close to where he was last seen. This finding marked the conclusion of the search efforts.
It is important to note that no connection has been established between Robert Bieri's disappearance and any disease expansion in the DMV area, as suggested by some reports.
The loss of Robert Bieri is a tragic reminder of the dangers that can lurk in even the most beautiful and serene of places. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.
Updates on the search efforts will be provided as more information becomes available.
[1] Shenandoah National Park Press Release, July 5, 2025. [2] Virginia Department of Emergency Management Press Release, July 5, 2025. [3] Virginia State Police Press Release, July 5, 2025. [4] Shenandoah National Park Press Release, July 7, 2025.
In remembrance of Robert Bieri, an outdoor-living enthusiast who loved hiking, his tragic demise serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with home-and-garden activities such as hiking. Despite his avid passion for sports, especially hiking, the serene landscapes of Shenandoah National Park bearing witness to an unexpected turn of events, highlighting the need for caution and safety in outdoor-living pursuits.
