Investigation into Biltmore Avenue Incident
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (Azat TV) – The Asheville Police Department (APD) is conducting a comprehensive investigation into a mass shooting that occurred early Sunday morning, July 19, 2026, leaving two people dead and seven others injured. The incident took place around 2:20 a.m. in the 250 block of Biltmore Avenue, a commercial area that required significant emergency intervention.
Responding officers, alongside personnel from the Asheville Fire Department and local EMS, arrived at the scene to find multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite immediate life-saving efforts administered at the site, two individuals were pronounced dead. Seven other victims were transported to Mission Hospital for urgent medical care. As of the latest update, the APD has not disclosed the specific conditions or identities of the injured individuals.
Potential Links to Previous Violence
APD detectives and forensic technicians spent the early hours of Sunday processing a expansive crime scene that extended from Biltmore Avenue near Short Coxe Avenue toward Southside Avenue. Investigators recovered numerous shell casings and other physical evidence that they believe will be critical to identifying the perpetrators.
While the investigation remains in its early stages, the Asheville Police Department has indicated that initial evidence suggests the shooting may be connected to a prior incident of gun violence. This potential link has become a primary focus for investigators as they work to determine whether the shooting was a targeted act or the escalation of an ongoing dispute.
Community Response and Next Steps
The area surrounding the 250 block of Biltmore Avenue was temporarily closed to allow for forensic analysis but has since been reopened to the public. Local authorities have called on the community to assist in the ongoing inquiry. Witnesses or anyone with relevant information are urged to contact the Asheville Police Department at (828) 252-1110. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via the TIP2APD smartphone application or by texting “TIP2APD” to 847411.