70-year-old hunter found dead in Alabama’s Bankhead National Forest 24 hours after disappearance

Danny Whitaker

Danny Whitaker, 70, did not return home as expected from a Nov. 14, 2024, hunting outing in the Bankhead National Forest. His body was found the following day.(Contributed)

An Alabama hunter missing for about 24 hours was found Friday in the Bankhead National Forest.

Searchers recovered 70-year-old Danny Whitaker’s body a day after he vanished while hunting. Lawrence County Sheriff Max Sanders said the discovery was made about 11 a.m.

Friends and family said Whitaker, an avid hiker and experienced hunter from Phil Campbell, left his home in Thursday’s predawn hours to go bow hunting. He was supposed to be home by noon.

A massive search ensued by roughly 14 agencies, Sanders said, including several county emergency management agencies and ALEA.

Whitaker’s car, a black Nissan Altima, was found late Thursday afternoon near Pine Torch Church.

No foul play is suspected.

Carol Robinson

Stories by Carol Robinson

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