Missing veteran thought to be in the Smokies found dead in Wyoming

(WVLT) -- The family of a missing veteran believed to be in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park confirmed that he was found dead in Wyoming.

Caleb Rios, 26, went missing on Oct. 1 and was last seen in Missouri, according to the St. Charles County Police Department.

"It breaks our hearts tremendously to share that today we received news notifying us that Caleb was found deceased in Wyoming," said Caleb's father, Eric. "We are so thankful for everyone’s love and support through this time. Caleb was an outstanding father, son, brother, and friend with a heart bigger than you could imagine."

The army veteran was believed to be in or near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, according to his family.

Police said Caleb expressed suicidal thoughts and was in possession of a handgun.

His father, Eric, said the Great Smoky Mountains was a place of interest that Caleb was looking at, and the family was very concerned for his safety.

If anyone has any information, they are asked to call 911 or 636-949-7900.

If you or anyone you know needs help, you can reach out to the free crisis text hotline at 741-741. You can also call suicide hotline at 1-800-273-8255 24/7.