Asheville Police Seek Suspect Brandon Hicks for Trespassing

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Police car at Burger King in Asheville during the search for Brandon Hicks.

News Summary

Asheville Police are actively searching for Brandon Alexander Hicks, a trespasser who fled into the woods after being spotted on DOT property. Community engagement is crucial as the police look for information on Hicks, who has distinct tattoos and a notable appearance. In a related update, a missing 3-year-old boy was safely located, and the APD is soliciting public assistance on various incidents, including an armed robbery and a statutory sex offense case involving an older suspect. Local residents are urged to help keep Asheville safe.

Asheville Police on the Hunt for Trespasser Brandon Alexander Hicks

Asheville is buzzing with activity lately, and it’s not just because of the beautiful mountain views. The Asheville Police Department (APD) is currently on the lookout for a trespassing suspect named Brandon Alexander Hicks. The whole situation kicked off on February 13 along the Smokey Park Highway, and it hasn’t calmed down since.

What started as an ordinary day turned into a scene right out of an action movie when officers spotted Hicks on Department of Transportation (DOT) property. When the police attempted to make contact, he made a run for it, hopping into the nearby woods. Since then, the APD has been conducting an extensive search without success. Community chatter on social platforms like Reddit has skyrocketed, with posts flooding in showing at least eight police cars stationed outside a local Burger King during the search efforts.

If you’re curious about what Hicks looks like, he’s described as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes. He stands around 5’6″ tall and weighs roughly 135 pounds. Keep an eye out for his tattoos if you come across him; he has a striking skull inked on his upper right arm, the Roman numeral “X-XXIX-XII” on his right wrist, and a Linkin Park symbol on his left hand. Locals, especially those near the Smokey Park Highway area, are encouraged to let the police know if they spot him.

For anyone who might have a tip or any information leading to Hicks’ capture, you’re asked to contact the APD at (828) 252-110. You can also share anonymous tips through the TIP2APD app or by simply texting “TIP2APD” to 847411.

Missing Boy Found Safe

Amidst the drama of the ongoing search for Hicks, there’s a much happier development to share. A missing 3-year-old boy, Taj Malik Massey, who was reported missing back on January 27, has been safely located! Taj was last seen wearing a bold blue and black jacket at his home located at 15 Dawson Place.

This situation initially raised concerns over a potential custody dispute. Thankfully, police were able to track him down on February 2, finding him safe with family members. While this case is concluded positively, the investigation will continue in partnership with the Department of Social Services to ensure the child’s well-being.

Police Encourage Public Input on Other Incidents

armed robbery that took place on December 7 at a convenience store on Smokey Park Highway. During this incident, a suspect brandished a gun and fled the scene with 14 scratch-off lottery tickets. This robber was dressed in a black jacket and gloves, sporting a motorcycle helmet, making them somewhat hard to identify. Anyone who might have information about this incident can reach out to police at (828) 252-1110.

Sex Offense Suspect Also Wanted

Juan Jose Bernal-Ramirez. This 62-year-old is wanted for a serious first-degree statutory sex offense and two counts of indecent liberties with a minor. His case was reopened after new evidence surfaced, shedding light on incidents first reported in 2016.

Bernal-Ramirez is described as a Hispanic male, standing 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing about 220 pounds. He has black hair, brown eyes, and a clear scar on his right forearm, which sets him apart. Interestingly, he has one leg but uses a prosthesis and seems to walk without any issues. The APD is working closely with the Buncombe County Family Justice Center on this case to offer support to the victims of such offenses.

The community’s involvement is crucial in all these scenarios. If you have any information regarding Hicks, the robbery, or Bernal-Ramirez, please reach out and help keep Asheville safe!