It's just odd that LE is so quiet on this case.
I wonder if the unnamed source of the multiple gunshots injuries was correct because I can't find any supporting official statement from LE, other than TW was "shot". If the source was also a searcher, a body covered in blood from a single gunshot can look like several.
If multiple gunshots were not involved, on the table of possibilities is accidental homicide and TW was shot by a random bullet in an area with a history of illegal recreation shooting. Perhaps he attempted to walk toward help (iirc Mt Herman doesnt have cellphone coverage) disorientated or otherwise, then eventually sought a resting place and succumbed to his injuries. After four days, his body was covered from autumn leaves blown or fallen from trees.
I could be wrong, but the lack of communication from LE has me wondering if it's not totally conclusive that intentional murder was involved.
"......Update on Mount Herman Road Homicide September 18, 2017
On Saturday, September 16, 2017, at approximately 5:00 PM, deputies responded to the base of Mount Herman Road in reference to a missing person. Palmer Lake Police had taken a case for the missing person earlier in the day. The missing person was last seen on September 14, 2017, at approximately 10:00 AM.
Search and Rescue was dispatched and began an extensive search of the area in which a shoe and bicycle were found. Due to limited light conditions, the search was called off for the night. Search and Rescue resumed their search early Sunday morning, September 17, 2017.
At approximately 11:45 AM, a civilian discovered a body which appeared to be deceased. Search and Rescue were able to confirm the person was deceased and requested law enforcement assistance.
Detectives responded and began to process the scene.
The victim, Timothy Watkins was shot and there is currently no suspect information. This is still an ongoing investigation and we are encouraging the residents of the area to be vigilant. If you see anything suspicious or out of the ordinary, please contact the Sheriff's Office Dispatch Center.......
Any information deemed official will be coming from the Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer...."
https://www.epcsheriffsoffice.com/news-releases/update-on-mount-herman-road-homicide