Asheville Police: Downtown Shooting Was Retaliatory Violence Between Groups

Asheville police say a deadly downtown shooting that killed two people and injured seven others was a retaliatory attack connected to an earlier shooting.

During a July 24 press conference, Interim Police Chief Jackie Stepp said investigators believe the July 19 Biltmore Avenue shooting was part of an ongoing pattern of violence between two groups of individuals.

“The evidence also strongly illustrates that this case is sadly the latest chapter in an ongoing pattern of retaliatory violence that has been taking place across our community for some time,” Stepp said.

Stepp said investigators have identified persons of interest and are working with local, state and federal agencies. She stopped short of calling those involved gang members, saying police believe the individuals had connections and were involved in ongoing retaliatory acts.

Police also confirmed an arrest in connection with the July 5 shooting at Maple Crest Apartments. Marqua Davis, 19, faces charges including assault with a deadly weapon, carrying a concealed firearm and injury to personal property.

Investigators said they recovered a Glock switch during the July 19 shooting investigation. The illegal conversion device can turn a semi-automatic handgun into a fully automatic weapon. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is assisting with the investigation.

During the briefing, Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer shifted the conversation toward gun policy, criticizing recent firearm legislation and calling for additional restrictions.

“The state of North Carolina preempts local governments from regulating where guns go, for the most part,” Manheimer said.

Manheimer said she supports stronger limits on firearm ownership and carrying, while opponents of additional restrictions argue existing laws already prohibit violent crimes and illegal firearm modifications.

The investigation into the July 19 shooting remains ongoing. Police are asking anyone with information to contact the Asheville Police Department at 828-252-1110 or submit tips through TIP2APD.