Authorities searching for missing hunter in Bankhead National Forest

LAWRENCE COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) — Authorities are searching for a missing hunter in the Bankhead National Forest.

According to the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, authorities believe the male hunter, Daniel Whitaker,70, is in the area of Pine Torch Church in the Bankhead National Forest.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Aviation Unit also assisted during the search up until 11 p.m. on Thursday night.

Search and rescue efforts are expected to resume around 8 a.m. on Friday morning.

LCSO added that Whitaker was reported missing by his wife around 3:30 p.m. on Thursday afternoon.

Authorities said that he was expected to return home by noon on Thursday.

Multiple agencies are also assisting in locating Whitaker.