Second-Degree Murder Charges in Asheville Pedestrian Attack

Asheville -- April 9, 2024: Asheville Police Department charged 24-year-old Tyler Coenraads with a second count of second-degree murder in connection with the

attack that killed 73-year-old Gregory William Martin, a pedestrian.

On March 12, Martin passed away from his wounds; his next of kin have been informed. Tyler Coenraads was charged with second-degree murder after the Asheville Police Department's investigation was concluded, the State Medical Examiner's Office's findings were reviewed, and the Buncombe County District Attorney's Office was consulted. On April 8, Coenraads turned himself in for the aforementioned charge. He is presently being held at the Buncombe County Detention Facility on a magistrate's NO BOND, which makes him ineligible for release.

In the afternoon of February 29, APD Patrol Officers were called to investigate an assault on a pedestrian. The pedestrian was taped on the hood of a stopped car as she crossed Haywood Road close to Craven Street. The pedestrian was then forced to the ground by the passenger who had just exited the car. The suspect got back into the car after the attack and drove away. After suffering a serious head injury, the patient was taken to Mission Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Detectives identified Tyler Coenraads as the suspect after an investigation, and he was charged with assault and serious bodily injury. On March 8, Coenraads checked himself into the Buncombe County Detention Facility. A $5,000 secured bond (or $500 to a bondsman) was given by the magistrate, and he was later freed.
April 8. He is presently being held at the Buncombe County Detention Facility on a magistrate's NO BOND, which makes him ineligible for release.

Editor's Note:* A criminal charge is an accusation, by law, a person accused of a crime is innocent until proven in a court of law.

WNCTimes