On Tuesday, Dec. 26, officers responded to 129 Kerley Street around 10:45 a.m. in reference to a death Investigation. Officers found Huellen Love Poteat, 53, deceased in a bedroom of the residence. A routine death investigation led Investigators to discover suspicious circumstances, requiring additional investigation.

An autopsy is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 28, to confirm manner and cause of death. Anyone with information in regard to this criminal investigation is encouraged to contact the Waynesville Police Department at 828.456.5363.