Search ends: Missing Cartersville teacher's body found

BARTOW COUNTY, Ga. - The search for a missing Cartersville teacher ended after his body was found Monday evening. 

The family of Scott Salter reported the 30-year-old missing when his school called, worried he didn't show Monday morning. 

His father, Gil Salter, said his son has been hiking in the woods of Pine Mountain Park since he was a child. Salter discovered his son's car in the parking lot at the trail head in the Cooper Furnace area. He said he called 911, which initiated the search.

Scott Salter's body was found just after 6 p.m. in a secluded rough terrain area off the trails. Preliminary investigation revealed that he died from sustaining accidental injuries. 

On Monday, Bartow County Sheriff's deputies, the Department of Natural Resources, family members and friends searched near Cooper Furnace in the county. Cartersville Police and volunteers were positioned at the other side of the park. Cartersville Police Lieutenant Michael Bettikofer said the terrain is very hilly and rocky. 

It's believed Salter went into the woods sometime Sunday.

The family thanked volunteers and friends for their outpouring of love, prayers and support on social media Tuesday.

Salter was a popular teacher at Cass High School, which is in the Cartersville area.