WOODFIN, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Woodfin police said a body found in the French Broad River over the weekend was that of a man who had been reported missing months ago.
Detectives, working with the Medical Examiner’s Office, identified him as Garren Keith Gentry, 42, of Madison County, police said Wednesday. Gentry was reported missing by his family in mid-December 2024. Investigators, who had been handling the case as a missing person, have now shifted it to a death investigation.
Based on the condition of the body and the surrounding debris field, authorities believe Gentry had been deceased and in the water for some time.
“At this point, there are no immediate and obvious signs or suspicions of foul play. However, we will continue to work through the investigative process to address all leads,” a Facebook post from the police department said.
FISHERMEN FIND BODY IN FRENCH BROAD, WOODFIN POLICE SAY
Gentry was last seen Dec. 8 on Union Road in Woodfin. He was wearing a black hoodie, jeans and a dark-colored cap. He was described as 5 feet, 11 inches tall, weighing 135 pounds, with brown hair and several tattoos, including a rebel flag on his upper right arm, an 8-ball on his left hand and a Tasmanian devil on his chest.
Anyone with information about Gentry’s whereabouts or activities between early December and May 4 is asked to call Woodfin detectives at 828-253-4887.
Woodfin police extended their condolences to Gentry’s family and friends. “The loss of a loved one is traumatic and heartbreaking for any family,” police said in a statement. “When that grief is compounded by five months of uncertainty, the pain is even deeper. We will continue to work diligently to offer closure for the Gentry family.”