Buncombe County -- April 3, 2026: A joint investigation is currently underway in a rugged stretch of the Pisgah National Forest following the discovery of human remains late Thursday evening.
The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) reported that the discovery was made just before 8:30 p.m. on April 2. According to officials, hunters scouting for the upcoming season stumbled upon the remains near 87 Coleman Boundary Road. The location is described as a high-elevation, remote area of Northeast Buncombe County, situated close to the Yancey County line.
Recovery Effort
Due to the "advanced stage of decomposition" of the remains and the unforgiving nature of the landscape, recovery efforts required a multi-agency response that lasted through the night. Teams from the Barnardsville Fire Department and Buncombe County EMS assisted sheriff’s deputies in navigating what authorities described as "treacherous terrain" to secure the site and preserve evidence.
“Our Criminal Investigations Division and CSI team will work with the U.S. Forest Service to provide answers and closure to those impacted by this investigation,” stated BCSO District 2 Captain Chris Stockton.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The BCSO is spearheading the probe alongside federal partners from the U.S. Forest Service. At this stage, the identity of the individual and the cause of death remain unknown. The remains will likely be transported to the North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for forensic identification.
Authorities have not yet indicated if foul play is suspected, though the remote location and state of the remains have necessitated a meticulous forensic sweep of the area.
For those seeking the latest updates on this developing story and other local breaking news, stay tuned to wnctimes.
Location: 87 Coleman Boundary Road, Pisgah National Forest
Agencies Involved: BCSO, U.S. Forest Service, Barnardsville Fire, Buncombe EMS
Status: Ongoing investigation