West Asheville Murder Suspect Used Pipe, Shot 12 Times, Fled to Indiana

West Asheville Murder Suspect Used Pipe, Shot 12 Times, Fled to Indiana

During a September 2023 shooting in West Asheville, an assailant with a metal pipe shot through a home’s wooden door before fleeing to Indiana, where he was arrested by the state’s highway patrol, newly-released records reveal.

Details of the Incident

Ismael Nazario Muñoz, 37, and his roommate were at their home on Oakview Road Sept. 2 when the roommate saw an “angry” individual approach Muñoz with a metal pipe, according to his death investigation report. The individual then fired shots into the wooden door, resulting in multiple gunshot wounds to Muñoz’s head, chest, arm, and leg.

Police Response

Two individuals called 911 reporting the incident. Police arrived at the scene and found bullet casings matching a 9 mm handgun. The suspect was tracked to Indiana where he was arrested without incident.

Arrest and Legal Proceedings

The suspect, identified as Arturo Cordero Martinez, was arrested by Indiana State Police and found in possession of a 9mm pistol and other items. Martinez was later extradited back to Asheville and indicted on a first-degree murder charge on Feb. 5.

Victim’s Background

Ismael Nazario Muñoz worked in construction and had a significant other. He tragically passed away at the scene before being transferred to the hospital. Muñoz was buried in San Pedro, Mexico.