Asheville -- May 11, 2026: A North Carolina man charged in connection with the deaths of three Buncombe County family members was denied bond during a court appearance in Tennessee today, marking a significant step toward his return to Western North Carolina to face first-degree murder charges.
Devan Oneal Loving, 28, appeared via video from the Sevier County Jail on May 11, 2026. He faces three counts of first-degree murder and felony conspiracy to commit murder in the deaths of three family members in Fairview. During the proceedings, it was also revealed that Loving faces an additional charge of kidnapping out of North Carolina.
The charges stem from a welfare check conducted by Buncombe County deputies on Thursday, May 7, at a home on Ashworth Drive. The check led to the discovery of three deceased individuals: Travis Eugene Grant, 41; Kimberly Michelle Grant, 42; and Sharon Harwood Grant, 66. All three victims reportedly died from gunshot wounds.
Authorities located Loving and co-defendant Star Grant, 16, at a hotel in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, on the morning of May 8, 2026. Grant, the daughter of two of the victims, also faces three counts of first-degree murder and conspiracy.
Loving is currently held on a "fugitive from justice" charge pending extradition. During the appearance, Loving inquired about his potential placement upon return, asking, "If I go back to North Carolina, will I be put into Buncombe (County) jail?" The judge responded that his exact placement remains uncertain.
Sevier County Jail officials confirmed that Loving is currently being held in solitary confinement. Jail spokesperson Hodges explained the protocol, stating, "We're not putting him with other people... for the safety of staff, the safety of inmates, and his safety as well," citing the severe nature of the charges.
While Loving indicated he would "consider" voluntary extradition to Buncombe County, he requested to speak with a public defender before making a final decision. A review hearing has been scheduled for May 28, 2026. Authorities have not yet released a motive for the killings.