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BOONE, NC – 18-year-old missing Appalachian State student Anna Smith was found dead Saturday in a wooded area near the University. Police won’t say who found her or how she died.
“It’s just kind of surreal to me,” says Appalachian State freshman Faith Montgomery.
The location on Poplar Grove Road is just off campus and near downtown on the west side of Boone.
Smith’s parents and fellow students led searches ever since she disappeared the day after Labor Day.
“It’s really been somber because everyone’s been, you know, we’ve had posters all around campus and trying to find her,” says Appalachian State Freshman Tamaya Walker.
People gathered near the crime scene trying to make sense of it all. “I know for the family, I feel for them, you know. I can’t even imagine how they feel,” says Boone resident Joshua Hicks.
Tonight a family spokesperson tells WCCB Anna’s parents are exhausted but relieved to know where she is. Her body is now at Wake Forest Medical Center. Her family hopes to get more answers after an autopsy Monday.
“My prayers definitely go out to her and her family. I can’t imagine what they’re going through right now,” Montgomery says.
