Asheville Community Mourning Loss of Christopher “Rorey” Hipps

The Asheville community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Christopher Rorey Hipps, affectionately known by many friends as “Mark Smallberg,” after he was found dead beneath the Haywood Road bridge on May 9.

According to the Asheville Police Department, officers responded around 12:28 p.m. that day after Hipps was discovered under the bridge. On May 14, investigators publicly identified the 39-year-old at the request of his family, who hope someone may come forward with information that could help provide answers surrounding his death.

Police say foul play is not currently suspected, but it has not been completely ruled out. Investigators believe Hipps may have died as the result of a fall, though the investigation remains ongoing.

As news of his death spread across social media, friends, skaters, and members of the Asheville community began sharing heartfelt tributes remembering Hipps for his kind personality, loyalty, and ability to make people feel welcome.

Many described him as someone with an infectious smile and a genuine spirit that left a lasting impact on everyone he met.

“The Asheville community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Rorey Hipps,” one post shared online stated. “His passing has left friends, family, skaters, and loved ones in deep sorrow.”

Others remembered Hipps as someone who brought light and laughter into difficult moments and said his death leaves “a tremendous void” in the community.

Investigators continue working to piece together the circumstances surrounding what happened beneath the bridge.

Anyone with information related to the case is asked to contact the Asheville Police Department at 828-252-1110. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the TIP2APD smartphone app or by texting TIP2APD to 847411.

Picture provided Forrest Warner on Facebook