Crossville, TN – The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Wednesday that the search for a missing man from Crossville has ended in tragedy.
According to Sheriff Casey Cox, skeletal remains recovered on September 24 in a remote wooded area of the Luminary Mountain region of Bledsoe County were positively identified as belonging to James C. Graves, 84. The Tennessee Medical Examiner’s Office in Nashville confirmed the identity using dental records.
Graves had been reported missing on April 1, 2025, prompting a statewide Silver Alert and extensive search efforts by multiple agencies.
“This is not the outcome any of us hoped for when this investigation began,” Sheriff Cox said in a statement. “Our hearts go out to the Graves family and loved ones. We want them to know they have our prayers and support as they grieve this loss.”
The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Bledsoe County Sheriff’s Office, Tennessee Highway Patrol Aviation, Cumberland County Rescue Squad, and Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency for their assistance in the search.
The Sheriff’s Office did not release further details regarding the cause of death.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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