Shocking Highway Shooting Incident in Asheville Leads to Arrest and Nine-Year Sentence

Shocking Incident on the Highway in Asheville

Asheville, N.C. – Just a few weeks ago, on September 30, 2023, an unsettling scene unfolded on the busy I-26 highway. It was a typical fall day when deputies received a call regarding a single gunshot fired into a moving vehicle. This incident could have been much worse, but thankfully, no one was injured during this shocking encounter.

The Events Unravel

According to reports from the Buncombe County District Attorney’s Office, the ordeal started when a driver noticed another vehicle driving aggressively. The driver, a woman traveling southbound on I-26 near mile marker 39, was understandably alarmed by the reckless behavior. In an effort to document her experience, she quickly pulled out her cell phone to capture video footage of the aggressive driver, later identified as Zachary Desmond Stewart.

As the video rolled, it captured a startling turn of events: Stewart fired a gun from his vehicle directly into the victim’s car. This alarming act occurred while both vehicles were still in motion, leaving witnesses and those involved in disbelief.

A Swift Arrest

Shortly after the shooting, Stewart crashed his car in nearby Henderson County, leading to his swift arrest by the deputies. During the investigation, authorities found a .380 pistol in his vehicle, confirming the seriousness of his actions. While onlookers’ hearts may have raced at the sight of the crashed car and the police presence, the silver lining is that miraculously, there were no physical injuries reported as a result of Stewart’s reckless behavior.

The Court’s Decision

Following this tense situation, the events moved to the courtroom, where Stewart faced multiple serious charges. During the proceedings, he pled guilty to several counts: two counts of felony assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, felony discharge of a firearm into an occupied moving vehicle, and felony possession of a firearm by a felon.

After pleading guilty, Stewart was sentenced to nearly nine years in prison, a decision reflecting the seriousness of his actions and the potential consequences of endangering lives for reckless reasons. While the court’s verdict aims to serve justice, it also acts as a reminder of the importance of road safety and the impact of aggressive driving.

Community Impact

This incident has left a mark on the local community, underlining a growing concern about road rage and reckless behavior on the highways. Residents of Asheville are left pondering how they can contribute to safer roads, while officials remind everyone that driving should be approached with care, respect, and responsibility.

As Asheville moves forward, many hope that this incident will spark conversations about road safety and encourage drivers to think twice about their actions behind the wheel. After all, everyone deserves to feel safe on their daily commutes, and together, the community can work towards ensuring that the highways remain a safe place for all.

As we reflect on this serious situation, let’s also remember the power of community support and vigilance in safeguarding each other. Drive safely, Asheville!