ASHEVILLE, N.C. —

What started out as an investigation into a violent assault led to the discovery of a woman stabbed to death in Asheville, North Carolina.

Asheville police officers were called about 10:15 p.m. Thursday to help EMS with a man who was severely beaten.

The man was taken to the hospital for treatment.

During the investigation, authorities identified the suspect in the beating as 32-year-old Douglas Michael Stroupe, who was found near the scene and arrested.

Further investigation prompted police to check a home on Warren Avenue.

Inside the home, police said they found what looked like a burglary scene and 45-year-old Jennifer Rose Gerard stabbed to death.

Based on evidence collected and witness statements, Stroupe was charged with first-degree murder, attempted murde

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