ASHEVILLE -- A traffic stop in Asheville on Friday, March 20, 2026, led to the arrest of three 18-year-olds and the seizure of three guns and narcotics. The incident underscores concerns about crime and public safety in the area.
The Asheville Police Department reported that the arrests of Collins, Griffin, and Tolbert followed the traffic stop, during which officers seized the weapons and drugs. A magistrate issued a secured bond for each, and all three were booked into the Buncombe County Detention Facility. They were released after posting bond the following day.
Terryon Collins faces three counts of resisting a public officer, as well as charges of carrying a concealed gun and injury to personal property. Bond: $20,000
Taaron Griffin was charged with carrying a concealed gun and possession of Schedule VI. T
Darius Tolbert was charged with Carrying Concealed Gun. Bond: $15,000
The Asheville Police Department emphasized that the traffic stop was part of routine patrols to address gun and drug activity in the Greater Asheville area and Buncombe County. The report did not specify the traffic stop's exact location within Asheville, but it occurred within city limits.