By Ruby AnnasSun
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — The City of Asheville has released a statement following an early morning shooting on Sunday, July 19, that left multiple dead and several injured.
The Asheville Police Department said officers responded to the 250 block of Biltmore Avenue around 2:20 a.m. on Sunday after reports of shots fired with multiple people hit.
Two people were pronounced dead at the scene and seven injured people were taken to Mission Hospital, APD said on Sunday.
The city is mourning the deaths, the injured and wishes healing for loved ones.
Investigators say evidence developed so far indicates the shooting may have been related to a prior gun violence incident.
Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer and City Manager DK Wesley’s joint statement calls for the community to “never become numb to senseless violence and continue to partner with the community and seek solutions to minimize violence.”
The city also thanked the first responders, adding that the Asheville Police Department is the leading agency in the case and will provide updates as information becomes available.