After over a week of uncertainty, the search for a missing Vian man came to a tragic end on Thursday when his body was discovered by authorities.

Ryan Jordan’s body was located in a wooded area near his residence north of Vian, following a large-scale search on Thursday morning, according to Sequoyah County Sheriff Larry Lane.

Jordan, 42, was reportedly last seen on Jan. 6 and was reported missing by family members on Jan. 9, just before a significant snowstorm hit the area.

Lane said an initial search on Jan. 13 yielded no results, prompting the need for a larger search effort on Jan. 16.

Lane said although Jordan had gone missing previously and was later found at a VA hospital in Fayetteville, Ark., this time, repeated attempts to reach local hospitals, jails, and with no activity on his debit card, suggested he may have wandered into the wooded area behind his home.

“Unfortunately, the search ended with the discovery of Ryan’s body,” Sheriff Lane said.

Lane said the body has been transported to the state medical examiner’s office, where an official cause of death will be determined.

The Sheriff expressed his gratitude for the many volunteers and agencies that contributed to the search, which covered more than 1,000 acres of rugged terrain, including thick woods, creeks, and fields.

“We had approximately 50 men and women show up to help, including Sequoyah County Sheriff ’s deputies, Cherokee Nation Marshal’s Office, firefighters from Blackgum, McKey, Marble City, Rural Fire Protection District #1, and several other volunteers,” Lane said. “Their dedication was crucial in covering such a large area.”

Lane also highlighted the invaluable assistance of the Cherokee Nation Special Application Branch, whose expertise and experience in search and rescue operations played a critical role in the successful outcome.

“Without their knowledge, it would have been nearly impossible to search the area as thoroughly as we did,” he added.

Lane stated that no foul play is suspected at this time, but an investigation is ongoing.

“We want to thank everyone who showed up to help,” Lane said. “It’s always a difficult situation, but we hope this gives Ryan’s family the closure they need.”

As of press time, a cremation service for Jordan is being conducted under the direction of Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc.