Asheville Shooting: 2 Dead, 7 Injured in Early Morning Incident on Biltmore Avenue

Asheville police are investigating a double homicide after a shooting early Sunday morning on Biltmore Avenue left two people dead and seven others injured. Officers responded to the 250 block of Biltmore Avenue around 2:20 a.m. on July 19 after receiving reports of shots fired and multiple people struck, according to the Asheville Police Department.

When officers arrived, they found multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts by officers, EMS crews, and Asheville Fire Department personnel, two people were pronounced dead at the scene. Seven additional victims were transported to Mission Hospital for treatment. Police have not released the extent of their injuries.

APD detectives and forensic technicians responded to the scene and collected evidence, including numerous shell casings. Investigators identified a large crime scene that stretched along Biltmore Avenue near Short Coxe Avenue and included Short Coxe Avenue to Southside Avenue. The area was closed during the investigation but has since reopened.

Before APD released details, 828newsNOW observed a large police presence and forensic investigators working in the area early Sunday morning. Multiple evidence markers were visible, and several vehicles appeared to have damage consistent with gunfire. Gloves, medical supplies, and other debris that appeared to have been left behind by emergency crews remained at the scene.

A person at the scene told 828newsNOW that a relative had been killed in what the witness described as a drive-by shooting. Police said evidence collected during the investigation indicates the shooting may have been connected to a previous gun violence incident. No suspect information, arrests, or motives have been officially released by APD.

As the investigation continues, residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any information to the Asheville Police Department.