Missing Endangered Person – Help Find Mark Phillips
A hike turns into a desperate search
Missing person in North Carolina. A peaceful day in the mountains of Tuckasegee, North Carolina, has turned into a race against time. Sixty-year-old Mark Phillips went missing on November 1, 2025, while hiking near Sugar Creek Gap Trail and Wet Camp Gap. What began as a simple family outing has become a full-scale search led by Jackson County Emergency Management.
Who is Mark Phillips
Mark is a friendly, outdoors-loving man who enjoys the mountains and nature’s calm. Standing 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighing about 190 pounds, he is strong and active. His friends say he never shies away from adventure, but he also knows how unpredictable nature can be. On the day he vanished, Mark wore a black sweatshirt, camo pants, a bright green toboggan, and gloves—clothing easy to spot in the woods.
The moment he disappeared
According to family and friends, the group began their hike early that morning. The air was crisp, and the trails were damp from recent rain. As they reached a split near Sugar Creek Gap, Mark stopped to take a photo and told them he’d catch up. Minutes later, he was gone. They searched the trail but couldn’t find him. When darkness fell, panic set in. They immediately alerted emergency services.
The search effort grows
Rescue crews began working through the night, combing rugged terrain with flashlights and dogs. The Jackson County Emergency Management team deployed drones and thermal imaging to cover more ground. Dozens of volunteers joined in, forming human chains to search dense forest areas. Helicopters circled the ridge lines, their lights sweeping across the dark hills. The search has continued day and night as temperatures drop in the mountain air.
Why time matters
The conditions in the Tuckasegee wilderness can be harsh. Nights are cold, and the terrain is steep. Mark’s age and exposure to the elements raise serious concerns for his safety. He may be injured, lost, or unable to signal for help. Search leaders say every hour is critical. “We need the public’s eyes,” one rescuer said. “If you’re hiking, hunting, or driving through the area, please watch for any sign of him.”
Family’s plea for help
Mark’s family has been waiting near the search site since the moment he disappeared. They’ve set up a small camp near Sugar Creek Gap, hoping for good news. “He loves this place,” his wife said. “He knows these trails, but something must have gone wrong.” Her voice shook as she thanked rescuers and volunteers who refuse to give up. The family is asking everyone in the region to stay alert and share Mark’s photo online.
Community response
People from across Jackson County have joined the effort. Hikers are retracing trail routes, and local shops are handing out flyers. Posts tagged #MarkPhillips and #NorthCarolina are spreading fast across social media. The community’s spirit is strong, but the urgency grows with each sunset. Everyone hopes today will be the day they find him.
How you can help
If you live near Tuckasegee or plan to visit the area, stay alert on the trails. Look around campsites, cabins, and along creeks. If you see any sign of Mark Phillips or his clothing, call 911 immediately.
Jackson County Communications: 828-586-1911
Hope in the mountains
The woods of North Carolina are vast but not endless. Mark is out there somewhere, waiting to be found. Each new day brings another chance to bring him home.
Please, share his story. Keep your eyes open.
Your attention could be what saves Mark Phillips.
Help bring him back safely.
