On Oct. 28 local artist Chris Ortega was found dead in his home. According to an Asheville Police Department spokesperson, Ortega’s death “is suspicious, and we are continuing to investigate.” Contrary to some rumors, police have not yet ruled his death a homicide.

The APD also noted that the department has no further information to release at this time.

The official incident report states only that Ortega, an illustrator whose work was featured in several local galleries and around the community, was found dead in his home midday on Oct. 28, and that he was last seen late in the afternoon Oct. 26. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the APD at 252-1110.