CARROLL COUNTY, Va. — The Carroll County community is mourning after authorities confirmed that Joshua Criner, a local man who had been reported missing earlier this week, was found dead on Saturday. The discovery has brought a heartbreaking end to an intensive search effort that had gripped the region for days and left family, friends, and neighbors praying for his safe return.
According to the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, deputies and search crews located the body of 38-year-old Joshua Criner in a wooded area off Route 58, several miles from his home. He had last been seen on Tuesday evening, when he reportedly left his residence on foot and failed to return. When loved ones were unable to reach him, they reported him missing, prompting an immediate search effort involving law enforcement, volunteer rescue teams, K-9 units, and community members.
Authorities said that foul play is not suspected at this time, though an official cause of death has not yet been determined. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Roanoke will conduct an autopsy in the coming days to confirm how and when Criner died. Investigators are continuing to piece together a timeline of events leading up to his disappearance.
For days, the community rallied together to assist in the search, sharing Joshua’s photo across social media and combing rural roads, trails, and wooded areas throughout the county. Family members expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support, even as they now face the painful reality of his loss.
“This is not the outcome we were hoping for,” said Sheriff Kevin Kemp in a statement Saturday evening. “Our hearts go out to Joshua’s family and friends. We know how much he was loved, and we extend our deepest condolences to everyone grieving this tragedy.”
Neighbors described Criner as a kind and friendly man who was always willing to lend a hand. “Josh was one of those people who would stop to help you fix your car or check on you after a storm,” said one longtime friend. “He had a good heart, and it hurts to know he’s gone.”
The discovery has left the small Carroll County community in mourning, as residents reflect on the fragility of life and the importance of coming together in times of crisis. Several friends have organized an online fundraiser to help the family with funeral expenses, while others are planning a candlelight vigil in Joshua’s memory later this week.
Carroll County Sheriff’s Office investigators said they will continue to follow up on all available leads until the medical examiner’s report is completed. While no signs of foul play have been found, authorities are urging anyone with information about Joshua’s movements in the days before his disappearance to contact the sheriff’s office.
As the investigation continues, those who knew Joshua Criner are left remembering him for his gentle nature, sense of humor, and the love he had for his family and friends. His death marks a painful loss for Carroll County — a reminder of how deeply one life can touch a community.
In the words of one relative shared on social media: “Josh was loved by so many. He will be missed more than words can say.”
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