Joseph Rose, 18, who was last heard from on Nov. 24 and reported missing on Dec. 2, was found dead on Dec. 12 in Candler, North Carolina. Preliminary autopsy results announced Dec. 16 led the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office to classify his death as a homicide. Investigators with the Criminal Investigations Division say the case remains a pending criminal investigation as they work to provide answers to the family.
18-Year-Old Who Missed Thanksgiving Found Dead; Preliminary Autopsy Rules Death a Homicide
Ashville Police Department
The body of 18-year-old Joseph Rose was discovered on Dec. 12 in Candler, North Carolina, authorities confirmed. Family members had reported him missing to the Asheville Police Department on Dec. 2 after he was last heard from on Nov. 24 and failed to appear at Thanksgiving dinner.
In an update posted Dec. 16, the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office said preliminary autopsy results led investigators to classify Rose’s death as a homicide. According to the sheriff’s office, Rose was located near 69 Gilbert B. Crook Road in Candler.
Rose’s sister, Emily Ivory Rose, previously told reporters that he had planned to attend the family’s Thanksgiving meal but never arrived and had not been in contact since Nov. 24. Emily told PEOPLE that her brother was found “in a ditch,” and the family has been trying to process the loss.
Ashville Police Department
Investigation Underway
The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division is continuing to investigate. In a statement, BCSO District 2 Captain Chris Stockton said,
"Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office personnel are working to bring answers for Mr. Rose’s family. BCSO personnel are committed to finding answers through a thorough investigation. These can take time and we appreciate the continued patience for us to follow through with that process."
Authorities have not released further details about the circumstances surrounding Rose’s death. The sheriff’s office said it will provide additional updates as more information becomes available.
Note: The family and investigators are awaiting final autopsy results and any additional findings that may clarify the circumstances of Rose's death.
