Where he hit him isn't really important at this point. If the blood was as you described it though, that deer will be just as dead at first light tomorrow morning as he would be if you found him tonight. Go in tomorrow when you'll have good light. That's a dead deer!

Here's a question what color was the fresh blood that you were finding? Dark red or pinkish and frothy.

With that kind of blood I would of kept tracking him if I had already started and tracked him that far. Probably would of been a good idea to give him some more time before looking but hopefully you find him in the morning and we get to see some pictures! sounds like a dead deer for sure

Found... update on main post.

Way to go, glad you found him. Great buck!!