Joseph Rose, 18, was found dead on Dec. 12 near 69 Gilbert B Crook Road in Candler, North Carolina, after deputies responded to a report of a body. His sister says he was last heard from on Nov. 24 and missed Thanksgiving plans; a missing-person report was filed on Dec. 2. Authorities say the circumstances of his death remain unknown and an investigation by the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office is ongoing as the family seeks answers.
Joseph Rose, 18, Found Dead After Missing Thanksgiving; Family Seeks Answers
Ashville Police DepartmentJoseph Rose, who was found dead on Dec. 12, according to police
On Dec. 12, deputies with the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office responded just after 3:30 p.m. to a report of a body at 69 Gilbert B Crook Road in Candler, North Carolina. Authorities identified the deceased as 18-year-old Joseph Rose. Family members say his body was found in a ditch; officials have not released full details as the investigation continues.
Family Seeks Clarity
Joseph's sister, Emily Ivory Rose, told ABC affiliate WLOS-TV that he was last heard from on Nov. 24 and 'had plans to come to Thanksgiving' but never arrived and did not make contact afterward. An Asheville Police Department officer confirmed a missing-person report was filed on Dec. 2.
Emily described Joseph as a 'free spirit' who 'loved everyone exactly as they are' and said the family is struggling to make sense of what happened. She also noted Joseph had been reported missing previously in June 2021 when he was 14.
Investigators Respond
BCSO District 2 Captain Chris Stockton said the sheriff's office is 'working to bring answers for Mr. Rose's family' and emphasized that thorough investigations can take time. Law enforcement has not released details about the cause of death while the probe is ongoing.
BCSO personnel are committed to finding answers through a thorough investigation, Stockton said. These can take time and we appreciate the continued patience for us to follow through with that process.
Authorities asked anyone with information about Joseph Rose or the circumstances of his disappearance to contact the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office. The family and investigators continue to seek clarity as the case proceeds.
