Heartbreaking Double Homicide Shatters Community in Asheville

News Summary

On December 16, Asheville, North Carolina, experienced a tragic double homicide at the Pisgah View Apartments, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. The police received a 911 call reporting gunfire, and upon arrival, they found 28-year-old Jaylen DeShawn Boston and a 16-year-old juvenile seriously injured. Efforts to save them were unsuccessful, marking a concerning trend in the area with multiple homicides this year. Community leaders are urging for information to aid the ongoing investigation and support the grieving families affected by this tragedy.

Heartbreaking Double Homicide Shatters Community in Asheville

On a seemingly ordinary December day in Asheville, North Carolina, the tranquility was abruptly interrupted by the sounds of gunfire, leaving the local community grappling with a tragedy that they will not soon forget. This incident, which took place at the Pisgah View Apartments, has left two families mourning the loss of their loved ones.

A Day of Horror

It all unfolded on December 16 when the Asheville Police Department (APD) received a 911 call at 3:19 p.m. reporting a barrage of gunshots. Responding officers rushed to the scene, and what they discovered was both shocking and devastating. In the main living area of an apartment, they found two victims, 28-year-old Jaylen DeShawn Boston and a 16-year-old juvenile, both gravely injured. Despite immediate efforts to perform CPR on both individuals, they were pronounced dead shortly after.

Statistics That Speak Volumes

This incident marks a grim milestone for Asheville, as it becomes the 12th and 13th homicides reported in the area for the year 2024. A deeply concerning trend has taken hold this year, and the community is left to ponder the factors contributing to this violence as families close their doors tighter and hold each other a little closer.

The Ongoing Investigation

As investigations unfold, APD Major Case Detective Shawn Parker has shared that although no suspects have been formally identified, several individuals are currently considered “persons of interest.” Eyewitness accounts suggest that more people may have been present during the tragic event, and the police are eager to gather any further information to help them connect the dots.

Community Support Needed

Highlighting the importance of community involvement, local authorities are reaching out for assistance. They are urging anyone with knowledge or tips about the incident to step forward. This collaborative effort is essential in piecing together the sequence of events leading to such a heartbreaking loss. The police have established a tip line available at 828-252-1110, and there is also the TIP2APD smartphone application where residents can send in their information discreetly.

Ensuring Public Safety

In the aftermath of this incident, APD has indicated that there is no major ongoing threat to the safety of the public. Investigators are actively working alongside the District Attorney’s office with a specialized team dedicated to resolving this tragic case. The priority remains to ensure that justice is served and that the community can heal from this profound loss.

Remembering the Victims

As the investigation continues, the families of the victims are left to cope with their unimaginable pain. Relatives of the juvenile victim shared a heartfelt sentiment of closure, finding comfort in the belief that he is now at peace. The community is rallying around these grieving families, honoring the memories of the young men whose lives were taken too soon.

Continuing the Fight Against Violence

The events of December 16 serve as a painful reminder of the issues that cities like Asheville face in terms of violence and community safety. With collective efforts and a commitment to justice, there is hope that similar tragedies can be prevented in the future.

The streets of Asheville have seen too much heartache in recent times, and now is the moment for the community to unite, support one another, and bring about the change that is desperately needed. Every bit of information counts, and together, they can be the change-makers in creating a safer Asheville for everyone.