Haywood Rd. Store Owner Faces Felony Drug, Gun, Assault Charges

Asheville -- July 30, 2026: A routine regulatory inspection at a West Asheville convenience store has led to the arrest of its owner on multiple felony drug, gun, and assault charges. Julian Agbala, 70, of Asheville, faces a substantial list of allegations after North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement (ALE) special agents reported discovering evidence of illegal cocaine sales and a stolen firearm at his business, Gas Up, on Haywood Road.The incident unfolded during an ABC (Alcohol Beverage Contro