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54-year old died of natural causes at Pisgah National Forest

CAMPOBELLO—A Campobello man died on July 5 while hiking at the Pisgah National Forest.

Robert James Frye, 54, of Campobello, was hiking with a friend in the Balsam Grove area on the border of the Pisgah and Nantahala national forests when he died, according to Transylvania County Sheriff David Mahoney.

Mahoney said it appears Frye died from natural causes as he had some medical issues while hiking. Frye died on the scene.

A 911 call for help was received shortly after 2:30 p.m. on July 5 from the national forest, according to Mahoney.

Frye and his friend were hiking back to a campsite at the Ridge Campground in Balsam Grove.

Frye graduated from Dorman High School and was the branch manager for Quick Credit in Gaffney, according to his obituary. He is survived by his two children, his parents, a grandson, 2 brothers and a sister.

The Forest Service urges visitors to heed warning signs, especially staying out of closed areas.