Search Underway for Two Missing Hikers in Oconee County: Public Urged to Assist
Oconee County, SC – April 6, 2025 – A large-scale search operation is currently underway in northern Oconee County as authorities work urgently to locate two missing hikers who disappeared while hiking in the Licklog Falls area. The Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, in coordination with Oconee County Emergency Services, is seeking the public’s help tonight as search efforts intensify.
The missing individuals have been identified as Carrell Wayne Fowler, 77, of Mountain Rest, and Sharon Kay Bramlett, 68, of Walhalla. The pair set out to hike the scenic trail system near Licklog Falls, which lies close to the Georgia border near Rabun County. The area is known for its rugged terrain, steep paths, and heavily wooded surroundings, making search and rescue efforts particularly challenging.
The two were reported missing after they failed to return as expected. Family members and concerned parties alerted authorities, prompting immediate mobilization of search teams.
Ongoing Search and Rescue Operations
Deputies from the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office and emergency personnel from Oconee County Emergency Services launched a full-scale search earlier today. According to officials, drones equipped with thermal imaging and high-resolution cameras were deployed to scan the densely forested region in hopes of spotting any signs of Carrell or Sharon.
Ground search teams, including K9 units and experienced search-and-rescue personnel, are combing through the hiking paths, creek beds, and backcountry trails near Licklog Falls. Operations are expected to continue through the night as weather and safety conditions allow.
“This is a serious situation, and time is critical,” said a spokesperson for the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office. “We are doing everything in our power to locate Mr. Fowler and Ms. Bramlett and bring them home safely.”
Appeal to the Public
Authorities are urging anyone who has hiked in the Licklog Falls area on Friday or Saturday, or who may have seen anything unusual or spotted the missing hikers, to come forward immediately.
“Even the smallest detail could make a huge difference,” said the Sheriff’s Office. “If you’ve seen anyone matching their descriptions — maybe at a trailhead, a parking area, or along a trail — we need to hear from you.”
Anyone who believes they’ve seen Carrell or Sharon, or who has any relevant information about their whereabouts, is urged to call 911 immediately.
Descriptions of Missing Hikers
- Carrell Wayne Fowler
- Age: 77
- Hometown: Mountain Rest, SC
- Last seen wearing hiking gear (exact clothing description not released)
- May have experience hiking in the area
- Sharon Kay Bramlett
- Age: 68
- Hometown: Walhalla, SC
- Last seen hiking with Mr. Fowler
- Known to be in good physical health for her age
Friends and family have described both individuals as avid nature lovers and responsible hikers, which makes their disappearance all the more concerning. It’s unclear at this time whether the pair became lost, injured, or encountered unexpected obstacles on the trail.
Community Support and Volunteer Efforts
As news of the missing hikers spreads, members of the community have begun to organize informal support groups and are offering assistance to the search teams. However, authorities are cautioning the public against entering the search area on their own, citing safety concerns and the risk of hampering ongoing operations.
“We appreciate the community’s willingness to help, but it’s important that search and rescue remain coordinated,” officials said.
Instead, residents are encouraged to help by sharing information, checking in with anyone they know who may have been in the area recently, and reporting any relevant details.
Hope Remains
Despite the difficult terrain and the number of hours that have passed, authorities remain hopeful that the hikers will be found alive and safe. Search and rescue teams are drawing on every available resource and are prepared to expand the search grid as needed through the night and into the next day.
Updates will be provided as new information becomes available. For now, the top priority is locating Carrell and Sharon and reuniting them with their loved ones.
Anyone with information is asked to call 911 or contact the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office directly at (864) 638-4111.
Please share this information widely to help bring Carrell and Sharon home.