Public Viewing Held for Denzel McKnight, Asheville’s 7th Homicide Victim This Year
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – A heartfelt gathering for the viewing of Denzel McKnight, Asheville’s seventh homicide victim of the year was held on Friday, Aug. 9th. The city turned out to pay their respects to a beloved member of the community from 1 PM to 7 PM at Avery’s Memorial Chapel.
Remembered with Love
Known for his infectious humor and amicable nature, McKnight will be profoundly missed by those who knew him. “He was really funny,” says Spencer Attride, a friend of McKnight’s. “Everyone he met, he just made them laugh and smile. He didn’t know any strangers. He was a really good person.”
Investigation Ongoing
McKnight’s life was tragically cut short when he was shot on July 26th around 2:24 AM at Hillcrest Apartments along Atkinson Street. Responding officers transported the 31-year-old to Mission Hospital where he sadly succumbed to his injuries.
Community members have been demanding action in response to this being the seventh homicide in Asheville already this year. The authorities have informed that detectives are presently following up on information and pursuing active leads.
Details of the Funeral Service
The funeral for McKnight will take place on Saturday, Aug. 10th, giving those who were unable to attend the viewing another opportunity to offer their respects, this time at Biltmore Church East Asheville Campus at 1 PM. Committal services will commence immediately after at Sunset Cemetery. All attendees are encouraged to abide by current health guidelines and respect each other’s grieving process during this difficult time.
A City in Mourning
Asheville, with a deeply knit community, is feeling the loss of McKnight. This untimely death not only marks the city’s seventh homicide victim of the year but also shines a light on the escalating violent crimes that have been plaguing the city, despite the nationwide dip in violent crime rates.
The Asheville Police Department has found seven shell casings at the scene, indicating the situation McKnight was in before the fatal gunshot. However, they have yet to release any information regarding potential suspects.
Community Pleas for Change
We can only hope that this tragic event leads to a renewed commitment to public safety from local authorities. Asheville residents’ are looking for a change in the escalating crime situation and they are now, more than ever, urging officials to step up their efforts to curb violence in the community. Witnessing the somberness of Asheville’s citizens during the viewing for Denzel McKnight only echoes their concern and mutual wish for a peaceful community.
