Justin Marshall Pangle : “Body near Asheville High School identified as janitor, cook”

A tragic discovery shook the community near Asheville High School on the morning of May 9 when a man was found dead near the school premises. The deceased individual has been identified as Justin Marshall Pangle, a janitor employed by the school. However, the cause of his untimely death is still under investigation, pending conclusive results from the authorities.

The distressing incident unfolded when an adult and their child spotted Pangle lying face down near a business at the 200 block of McDowell Street. Promptly, emergency services were alerted, and the Asheville Police Department, along with the Asheville Fire Department, responded to the scene. Tragically, it was confirmed that Pangle had passed away upon their arrival.

A recently released police incident report shed light on Pangle’s identity and his association with Asheville High School. The 41-year-old Leicester resident had been working as a janitor at the school, according to his death certificate and online obituary.

While initial assessments suggested that the cause of death might be medical in nature and no foul play was suspected, the investigation remains ongoing. Asheville Police Department continues to await the results of the autopsy conducted by the medical examiner’s office, as confirmed by police spokesperson Rick Rice.

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Pangle’s stepfather, Chris Creel, shared insights into Pangle’s life, revealing that he had been battling a medical condition. However, the family is still awaiting clarity on whether this condition played a role in his tragic demise.

Kimberly Dechant, spokesperson for Asheville City Schools, confirmed Pangle’s employment with a contracted group providing services to the school system. Pangle had been serving as a janitor at Asheville High School for approximately a year and had previously worked as a cook at Oakley Elementary and Brooks Howell Home in Asheville.

Described as a dedicated individual who cherished his interactions with students, Pangle’s passion for cooking shone through in his daily life. His family recalled his love for preparing New Orleans-style jambalaya and his enthusiasm for Thanksgiving celebrations.

Apart from his culinary talents, Pangle found solace in watching movies, particularly ’80s action films like “Die Hard,” which held a special place in his heart. Remembered as a beloved son, brother, and uncle, Pangle’s online obituary highlighted his close bond with his twin brother, two nieces, and his special friend, Jamie.

Originally hailing from Chattanooga, Tennessee, Pangle spent a significant part of his life in Knoxville before relocating to the Asheville area. Fondly remembered as a generous and sociable individual, Pangle’s absence has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him.

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Ryley Ober is the Public Safety Reporter for Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Email her at rober@gannett.com and follow her on Twitter @ryleyober