Missing Lockport man last seen in Great Smoky Mountains National Park found in North Carolina

Updated 2 hours ago
CHICAGO (WLS) -- Over a week since a south suburban man was last seen in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee, he was found safe in North Carolina, officials said Tuesday.



Park officials said Marcin Bachleda-Blaszczak, 29, was reported missing on Aug. 24.

Marcin Bachleda-Blaszczak was reported missing on Aug. 24.



His family said he is from Lockport.



Bachleda-Blaszczak's vehicle was located in the Sugarlands Visitor Center parking lot.

His family said police also found his wallet and cellphone.

Officials said his last known location was the parking lot on Aug. 22.

Officials said a team of 57 park rangers and volunteers was actively searching areas in and around the park.

"The National Park Service is grateful to everyone who assisted in the search by submitting tips and spreading the word, as well as to the many park rangers, volunteers and partner agencies who assisted with the search," park officials said.



The incident remains under investigation.
Copyright © 2026 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.