Asheville -- July 21, 2026: Asheville Police are actively investigating a weekend shooting on Biltmore Avenue that left two people dead and seven injured, with many questions remaining unanswered. The incident, which occurred early Sunday morning, is being treated as a double homicide, and authorities are urging witnesses to come forward to help piece together the sequence of events.
Around 2:20 a.m. on Sunday, July 19, 2026, officers responded to reports of shots fired in the 250 block of Biltmore Avenue, specifically outside Dalton’s Distillery and the neighboring Smile Starters parking lot. Witnesses reported hearing approximately 25-30 gunshots from what they described as a passing vehicle in the crowded commercial corridor, shortly after local bars had closed.
Despite life-saving efforts, two individuals were pronounced dead at the scene. Seven others were transported to Mission Hospital, where two remain in critical condition, four are in stable condition, and one person was treated and released. The identities of the deceased have not yet been publicly released, though next-of-kin notifications have been completed.
The Asheville Police Department (APD) is leading the active and ongoing investigation. Detectives are reviewing all available evidence, including numerous shell casings and at least one recovered firearm from the scene. Interim Chief Jackie Stepp has indicated that witness statements and existing evidence suggest a vehicle was involved and that the incident was not a random act of violence.
While authorities have not publicly established a definitive motive, initial evidence suggests the shooting may be related to a prior gun violence incident. APD has declined to provide additional specifics on this potential link or to confirm whether the shooting was targeted or part of an ongoing dispute, stating these issues remain part of the ongoing investigation. Police have also not publicly identified how many shooters may have been involved or whether any of the victims were bystanders.
Mayor Esther Manheimer and City Manager D.K. Wesley issued a public statement, expressing mourning for the deceased and injured. They emphasized the need to "never become numb" to gun violence and thanked first responders, urging the public to rely on official sources and allow APD time to conduct its investigation. Local media coverage highlights community concern about late-night public safety in entertainment districts.
How the Public Can Help
As the pursuit of justice and clarity continues, APD is strongly urging anyone with information to come forward. Witnesses, photos, videos, or any other relevant details can be shared by calling 828-252-1110, using the TIP2APD smartphone app (search “Asheville PD” in the app store), or texting TIP2APD to 847411. No arrests have been announced, and no suspects have been publicly identified as the investigation works to determine what led to the violence.