CANTON, N.C. -- A man accused in the murder of a co-worker at the Pisgah Inn last month was indicted on second degree murder charges.

The U.S. Attorney's Office says 20-year-old Derek Pendergraft is accused of killing Sara Ellis while hiking near the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Investigators say Pendergraft told them he killed Ellis, but didn't remember because he blacked out.

Ellis' body was found along on an embankment.

If convicted, he could face up to life in prison.