Unicoi Co. sends 3 bodies to JC forensics center

UNICOI COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) – Officials in Unicoi County held a press conference Monday to provide updates on the ongoing search and recovery efforts around the county following disastrous flooding.

Public Information Officer for the Tennessee All Hazards Incident Management Team Myron Hughes and EMA Director for Unicoi County Jimmy Erwin spoke at the briefing.

Hughes confirmed that three bodies had been transferred from Unicoi County to the William B. Jenkins Forensics Center in Johnson City.

RELATED: Families ask for updates on loved ones at Unicoi County briefing

One positive identification has been made, but the identity of that person will not be released.

For the first time, a Spanish translator was present at a briefing in Unicoi County. Hughes said that will continue to be the case, and any printed communications will also be provided in Spanish.

About 50 family and friends of those missing attended both the morning and afternoon meeting.

Anabel Andrade translated on behalf of a family member of a missing person while speaking to News Channel 11.

“They want to know where they are, they want to rest,” Andrade said.

Erwin provided updates on the countywide recovery efforts. He said 100 emergency responders were on the ground, and the Army National Guard assisted in debris removal.

Another press briefing is scheduled for Tuesday at 10 a.m. at the front entrance of Unicoi County High School.

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