Community calls for action after seventh homicide in Asheville this year
ASHEVILLE, N.C. — The seventh homicide of the year has struck Asheville in the early hours of Friday, sparking significant concern and calls for action among community activists and leaders. Denzel McKnight, aged 31, was found dead from a gunshot wound that marked his fateful end in Hillcrest Apartments on Atkinson Street. This incident has surged a heightened sense of urgency for addressing gun violence in the community.
A Tragic Early Morning Incident
At around 2:24 a.m., Asheville police officers found McKnight, suffering from a gunshot wound. He was immediately transported to Mission Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. Now, community members are grieving his loss and demanding an immediate response from both local and state-level leaders. One friend posted a tribute message for McKnight on Facebook – “Denzel McKnight, rest easy.”
Asheville Grapples with Gun Violence
Denzel McKnight’s death underscores the escalating gun violence that Asheville has been dealing with this year. The situation is particularly alarming for the city’s black community. Dee Williams, an Asheville community activist, noted the string of murders involving young black men in the city this summer. “You’re in a census tract that is distressed. These are poor people,” she said.
Asheville investigators have confirmed communicating with witnesses present at the scene during the incident. They are urging more people to step forward with information to help identify the suspect who remains on the loose.
Previous Brush with Gun Violence
In a chillingly similar scenario from 2015, McKnight was shot in the face during a heated argument in Biltmore Village. The shooter eventually pleaded guilty and received the maximum prison sentence. McKnight, however, survived that incident. Regrettably, the bullets fired at him in Hillcrest on Friday morning proved fatal.
Community Calls for Robust Measures Against Gun Violence
In response to this alarming rise in gun violence, community officials are advocating for robust measures to curb the trend. Pastor John Grant of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church is inviting government leaders, community activists, and residents for a community-wide forum to discuss specific strategies in reducing gun violence. “We need to bring all the organizations together and see where the gaps are,” he said.
The echoing sentiment among the community is the pressing need for action. “We are accountable for this,” Williams expressed in passionate concern, adding, “For the lack of doing anything and taking plausible solutions and disruption. There’s been a lot of talk, but no action.”
Seeking Information To Apprehend the Culprit
While no arrests have been made regarding McKnight’s case as of yet, the police and community urge anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously by texting TIP2APD to 847411 or through the TIP2APD smartphone application. Residents are also encouraged to reach out directly to Asheville police at 828-252-1110.
