Volunteers search for missing Caldwell County man

Volunteers from three different fire departments in Caldwell County clawed their way through the underbrush near where Red Poarch lives.

His sister, Patsy Poarch, is clinging to the hope they will find her brother soon. No one has seen him since Wednesday morning.

"The first day, we didn't know what to do. We walked everywhere, looking and hollering. I've even come out every night hollering, 'Red, supper is ready!' thinking he was around."

Red Poarch's home sits along the Catawba River just below the Rhodhiss Dam. Firefighters started searching the river Thursday but didn't find anything. While it has been warm during the day, last night, the temperature plunged to near-freezing.

Just above the treetops, a highway patrol helicopter circled the search area, looking for Red Poarch. Volunteers are hoping to find footprints, torn clothing -- anything. Family members say Red Poarch left without any shoes.

"It is pretty rough. A lot of briars. Up and down hills. It is pretty rough," Gary Winebarger, Hudson Fire and Rescue.

Patsy Poarch says her brother, who has been mentally handicapped all his life, has had even more problems during the last few  months. She is giving thanks tonight to all of the volunteers, many of whom she doesn't even know, for searching for her brother.

"Just, God bless them," says Patsy Poarch.