ASHEVILLE, N.C. (NCN News) – Asheville police are investigating an early morning shooting Sunday (July 19) that left two people dead and several others injured.
Officers responded to the 250 block of Biltmore Avenue at around 2:20 a.m. on July 19th to investigate reports of shots being fired and multiple people being struck. Upon arrival, officers located multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds.
Two individuals were pronounced dead at the scene. Seven additional victims sustained injuries and were transported to Mission Hospital for treatment. The extent of their injuries is not being released currently.
Detectives and forensic technicians responded, identified a large crime scene, and collected valuable evidence, including numerous shell casings.
At this time, evidence developed by investigators indicates that the shooting may have been related to a prior gun violence incident. Biltmore Avenue near Short Coxe Avenue was closed, as well as Short Coxe Avenue to Southside Avenue, during the investigation, but has since reopened.
If you have any information about this incident, please contact APD at (828) 252-1110. You can also send an anonymous tip using the TIP2APD smartphone application (search “Asheville PD” in your app store) or by texting TIP2APD to 847411.