ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A violent stretch of gun-related incidents in Asheville continued Monday night when shots were fired at a West Asheville apartment complex, though no injuries were reported, police said.
The latest incident follows a weekend that left two people dead and nine others injured in three separate shootings across the city.
According to the Asheville Police Department, officers responded around 8:46 p.m. Monday to reports of gunfire at Pisgah View Apartments on Granada Street.
When officers arrived, the suspect had already left the area. Police said investigators found two vehicles struck by gunfire and recovered 24 shell casings from firearms of different calibers.
Officers also located five live rounds under a nearby bush, close to where a candlelight vigil had been taking place. Police did not immediately say whether the vigil was connected to any of the recent shootings.
In a joint statement released Tuesday, Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer and Interim Police Chief Jackie Stepp said the city has experienced several incidents of gun violence over the past few days.
“Our hearts and thoughts are with the families who have lost loved ones, the victims grappling with trauma, and all the members of our community who are feeling the pain and fear caused by the recent gun violence in Asheville,” the statement said.
Officials said the recent shootings appear to be unrelated, though some stemmed from conflicts that escalated into gunfire.
Police said the department is actively investigating the incidents and is working with federal, state and local partners to identify and prosecute repeat violent offenders. Authorities have also increased patrols in areas where recent shootings have occurred.
“Behind every one of those incidents is a person, a family and a neighborhood impacted. Our residents deserve to feel safe in their neighborhoods and public spaces, and we must work together as a community, not just during crises, but through ongoing efforts to promote peace and safety for everyone,” the mayor and chief said in their statement.
City leaders also urged residents to help investigators by sharing information that could help solve the cases and prevent retaliation.
Anyone with information 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.
