Henderon County -- July 28, 2026: Local authorities are conducting a death investigation after a young man was discovered deceased at a Henderson County park on Monday, July 27.
According to the Henderson County Sheriff's Office, patrol deputies were dispatched to Dana Park—located just east of Hendersonville off Upward Road—shortly before 6:30 a.m. Monday. Upon arriving at the scene, deputies located a deceased male.
The individual has been officially identified by the sheriff's office as 18-year-old Kooper Sturdivant.
At this time, the investigation remains active and ongoing. However, investigators have noted that early signs do not point to criminal activity. Authorities stated there is currently "no indication of foul play or involvement by any other parties."
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has been notified and will take over determining Sturdivant's official cause and manner of death in the coming days.
Quick Facts:
Deceased: Kooper Sturdivant, 18.
Location: Dana Park (off Upward Road, Hendersonville).
Time: Deputies responded just before 6:30 a.m. on Monday, July 27.
Status: Active investigation; no foul play suspected at this time.