Asheville Shooting: Retaliatory Act Claims Two Lives

In Asheville, North Carolina, police have reported a downtown shooting as a direct retaliatory act. The incident resulted in the deaths of two individuals and wounded seven others. Authorities have not classified the violence as gang-related within the Blue Ridge tourist town.

The shooting occurred in the early hours of July 19 near Biltmore Avenue and Short Coxe Avenue, areas known for their downtown businesses and nightlife. The Asheville Police Department (APD) responded at approximately 2:20 a.m., discovering multiple individuals with gunshot wounds.

Despite life-saving efforts, two victims died at the scene. Seven others were transported to Mission Hospital. Officers recovered numerous shell casings, indicating a significant crime scene.

Initially, investigators suggested a connection between this shooting and a previous incident of gun violence. However, Interim Police Chief Jackie Stepp later confirmed it as retaliation tied to a July 5 shooting at an apartment complex, where one person was shot and an arrest was made.

Chief Stepp described this event as part of a pattern of retaliatory actions across the city. She clarified that those involved are not gang-affiliated. The individuals knew each other and engaged in ongoing retaliatory acts. Several persons of interest have been identified, with ongoing efforts to locate and interview them.

The police department is working with local, state, and federal bodies to analyze evidence and monitor upcoming local events. Gang activity exists in Asheville, Stepp acknowledged, but emphasized that these shootings do not fit traditional gang activity patterns.

During a community briefing, a local pastor and gang-prevention facilitator questioned the city’s lack of engagement with prevention programs. Mayor Esther Manheimer expressed interest in learning more about these programs, pointing to existing plans and partnerships focusing on violence prevention.

Manheimer also highlighted challenges in controlling gun violence, citing North Carolina’s relaxed gun laws and constraints on local regulations. Businesses increasingly bear the responsibility of curbing weapon presence within their premises.

Addressing prior media reports, Chief Stepp confirmed the recovery of a Glock switch in relation to the incident but did not clarify its exact origin, whether from the shooting scene, a suspect, or another source.

APD urges anyone with information to contact them at 828-252-1110, submit an anonymous tip via the TIP2APD app, or text TIP2APD to 847411.