Metro Atlanta man goes missing in Guatemala after solo hike, country says

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - A man from metro Atlanta who went missing in Guatemala on Tuesday night after taking a hike across a volcano by himself has been found.

ORIGINAL STORY:

Zain Waliany, 26, was hiking the Volcan de Acatenango near the city of Antigua when he went missing, according to the Guatemalan Institute of Tourism.

Waliany had hiked for more than 12 hours with a friend that day, an online fundraiser dedicated to his recovery said. Around midnight, he and the friend decided to split up. Walilany was supposed to meet the friend after his solo hike, but he never returned.

The young man’s family and friends are trying to raise $20,000 to help organize search parties, hire drones and helicopters, print flyers and pay local rewards. Any leftover money will be donated to Fly the Phoenix, an organization that gives Guatemalan children food, education and other necessities.

“We really need people to go off the trails, because we think he’s lost,” said Emen Waliany, Zain’s sister. “If he was on the trails, I’m sure a tour guide or anyone would have found him by now.”

The fundraiser’s organizers ask anyone with information about where Waliany is or who knows of any helpful resources to text or call (470)-952-4063. They also ask the public to reach out to public representatives and the U.S. Embassy for help.

“This is a man who would do anything for his family and friends,” Shivika Kandhal, Zain’s friend, said. “He makes it known, his love for people.”

This is a developing story. Check back with Atlanta News First as we learn more.