Sheriff’s Office investigating deceased body found along a local river

Last Updated on May 24, 2022 4:41 pm

Update Tuesday May 24 – The update below is from Watauga County Sheriff Len Hagaman:

Kyle David Moretz, 70 years old, of Castleford Rd. was located deceased near his home. Mr. Moretz was located by a kayaker in the water. 

The Watauga County Sheriff’s Office, Watauga Medics, Emergency Management and the Watauga County Rescue Squad responded to the scene. 

The Watauga County Sheriff’s Office investigated the death of Mr. Moretz. The lead investigator worked with the local medical examiner. No suspects are being sought, there is no evidence to suggest criminal activity. It has been determined by the lead investigator that the manner of death shows no evidence of foul play. 

The Watauga County Sheriff’s Office would like to extend our deepest sympathy, thoughts and prayers to the Moretz family. 

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On Wednesday afternoon, May 18, 2022, at 4:27 pm the Watauga Communications received a report of a deceased body in the river near Castleford and River Ridge Rd. 

A person kayaking saw what he believed to be a body and called, according to a report from the Watauga County Sheriff's Office.

Sheriff’s Deputies located the deceased in the river based on the directions given by the kayaker, approximately a half mile from the River Ridge Road bridge. After next of kin was notified, the deceased was identified as Kyle David Moretz, age 70, of Castleford Road according to Sheriff Len Hagaman.  

Watauga County Sheriff’s Office deputies, Watauga Medics, Emergency Management and the Watauga County Rescue Squad responded to the scene. 

The Watauga County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the manner of death and the investigation is ongoing.