Appalachian Trail Shooter Dead

Randal Lee Smith was found dead in his cell.

Authorities say they found Randall Lee Smith by himself and unresponsive in his jail cell around 5:00 p.m. Saturday.

Jail guards tried to revive him and then took Smith to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Authorities with the Giles County Sheriff's department say they found no evidence of suicide. They say Smith's death appears to be more of a medical problem. Yesterday, however, the inmate said he was ready for death.

"By the tone of his voice, Mr. Smith was very bitter about the process that had been dealt to him as he said. And, he no longer wanted to live," said Lt. Ron Hanlin of the Giles County Sheriff's Department.

Authorities hope to learn more about Smith's death once an autopsy is performed in Roanoke.

Update: May 13, Scot Johnston was released from the hospital yesterday. His reaction.

Scott Johnston's reaction was this: "I was sad to hear the news and would never wish death upon anyone."

Johnston is 38-years-old and from Bluefield, Virginia.

He was released five days after being shot in the neck and back while camping along the Appalachian Trail.