Search Continues For Dr. Smith In Overton County

Putnam and Overton County authorities have issued a silver alert for Dr. James Smith of Cookeville (left). This photo of Smith was taken on Sunday, April 14.

Putnam and Overton County authorities continue their search for 83-year-old Dr. James Smith.

Putnam County Sheriff Eddie Farris said Saturday Smith was last seen leaving his Cookeville home Wednesday afternoon.

“Dr. Smith’s wife reported him to have left his residence at approximately 2 p.m. traveling to Overton County, where he owns several parcels of land… including a business his grandson owns and operates,” Farris said. “On the morning of Thursday, April 18, at approximately 9:30 a.m., Dr. Smith’s vehicle was located on a remote logging road in Overton County.”

Authorities and volunteers have searched for Smith along Copeland Cove Road and the surrounding area since Thursday. Over 100 volunteers participated in the search Saturday morning.

Farris reported that the roadway is approximately six miles in length with rugged terrain making the search more difficult. Bad weather sweeping through Overton and Putnam Counties since Thursday night has only complicated search efforts.

District Attorney Bryant Dunaway said it’s too soon to determine whether foul play may be involved.

“We really don’t want to speculate on anything. It’s not a good idea to do that,” Dunaway said. “We want to base our statements on fact, and until we locate Dr. Smith, we won’t be able to judge his well-being or any other things like that. The search continues as we speak. There’s boots on the ground. We were lucky enough to find his truck, which we hope will give us some indication as to the location where he may be.”

Smith’s truck was found unoccupied along Copeland Cove Road. He was last seen wearing glasses, a multi-colored shirt, and denim jeans.

Authorities say Smith was recently diagnosed with dementia and walked with a cane. Smith practiced dentistry in Cookeville on a part-time basis.

Overton County Sheriff John Garrett thanks all volunteers and everyone who has donated resources while authorities continue their search.

Anyone with information on Smith’s location is encouraged to contact Overton or Putnam County authorities immediately.