By Nicole June
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – As the hunt for suspected killer Kirby Wallace continues in Montgomery and Stewart counties, law enforcement officers are facing tough challenges when navigating the rural area’s rough terrain.
Stewart County Sheriff Frankie Gray, Doug Catellier from the GIS Center, and Jimmie Edwards – Director of Emergency Services stressed that the terrain in the area is very difficult for search teams to maneuver. The GIS center has been providing topographical maps for those on the ground.
The wooded area is full of valleys, steep ravines, thick brush, caves, and other hazardous topography.
“In some places the brush is so thick you can’t even see the person to your left or to your right,” Catellier said.
Unseasonably high heat indices and high humidity have also taken a toll on the search parties.
Edwards said emergency service personnel, including tactically trained paramedics, are assisting with the search. He said several individuals have been treated for dehydration and heat-related exhaustion as the heat index remains in the upper 90s.
At least one person was transported from the scene by ambulance due to a heat-related incident, but that person is in stable condition.
READ MORE: County increases reward, perimeter tightens after possible sighting from air, ground
The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office released the following terrain photos to give the public an indication of what law enforcement is currently dealing with in the area:
