Repeat Gunfire Incidents Lead to Teen Arrest on Griffing Boulevard
Asheville Police Responds to Gunfire for the Second Time in One Week
ASHEVILLE, N.C. — A week of violence along Griffing Boulevard peaked with the arrest of an 18-year-old teen, identified as Stephen Erik Koerschner. Reports indicate that police were called to a residential property twice within one week, both times responding to reports of discharged firearms.
The latest incident occurred on the afternoon of July 30, when authorities were called to a residence on Griffing Boulevard following reports of gunfire. After multiple unsuccessful attempts by officers to make contact with the homeowners, Koerschner emerged from the residence and was subsequently arrested without further incident.
Previous Seige Marks a Week of Unrest
Just five days prior, on July 25, Asheville police had reported to the same residence following a shots-fired incident. At the scene, officers found evidence of multiple discharges, including 15 bullet casings and an equal number of bullet holes at the front of the property.
At the time of the teen’s arrest, Koerschner already had open warrants for driving while impaired and serious injury by vehicle. His connection to the reported gunfire incidents is still under investigation, but he was taken into custody without resistance.
Investigation Continues
The Asheville Police Department maintains that the investigation into both shooting incidents is still underway. Detectives persist in their work to identify leads and piece together the incidents’ circumstances. The department urges locals who might have information pertaining to the cases to come forward. In addition, Asheville residents with home surveillance videos that might have captured the incidents are strongly encouraged to share their footage with investigators.
Individuals wishing to provide leads can contact Asheville Police Department by calling their general line at 828-252-1110. Moreover, anyone wanting to remain anonymous can send a tip by texting TIP2APD to 847411 or using the TIP2APD smartphone application, which is available in any app store when searching under “Asheville PD”.
Following The Arrest
Upon arrest, Koerschner was held on his preexisting open warrants under a $30,000 secured bond issued by the magistrate. His connection to the gunfire incidents and any potential charges stemming from these are still to be decided as investigations continue.
The residents of Griffing Boulevard and the wider Asheville community are watching closely as the investigation unfolds, with many hoping for swift resolution to the recent wave of violence.
