September 24, 2025

Asheville Man Charged with First-Degree Murder

Asheville, North Carolina, September 24, 2025

News Summary

In Asheville, a 41-year-old man has been charged with first-degree murder after an incident on Interstate 26 that left a 50-year-old woman dead. Police found the victim, Carly Elizabeth Johnson, who succumbed to serious injuries believed to be from an assault. The suspect, Kenneth Lontrell Christian, is currently in custody without bond. This marks the fourth homicide this year in Asheville, raising concerns over local violent crime. The investigation is ongoing, with officials seeking additional information from the public.

Asheville, North Carolina – An Asheville man has been charged with first-degree murder following a homicide investigation that began early Tuesday morning. The incident occurred on Interstate 26 east at exit 33 around 3:23 a.m. when police responded to a report of a disabled driver. Upon arrival, officers found the passenger in the vehicle, identified as 50-year-old Carly Elizabeth Johnson, suffering from injuries indicative of a “serious assault.” Unfortunately, Johnson later succumbed to her injuries at the scene.

The driver of the vehicle, 41-year-old Kenneth Lontrell Christian, was taken into custody after a series of negotiations with police. He has been charged with first-degree murder and is currently being held in the Buncombe County Detention Facility without bond. This case marks the fourth homicide investigated by the Asheville Police Department in the current year.

Police Captain Joe Silberman characterized the scene as “grisly,” indicating the severity of the assault. Authorities believe that a tool found inside the vehicle was utilized in the assault against Johnson. The investigation remains ongoing as police sift through evidence and conduct additional interviews.

The Asheville Police Department urges anyone with further information about the case to reach out. Tips can be provided by contacting the department directly at 828-252-1110 or anonymously via text by using TIP2APD at 847411 or through the TIP2APD smartphone application.

Background Context

This incident adds to the growing concern over violent crime in Asheville, with four homicides reported so far this year by the Asheville Police Department. Law enforcement agencies continuously work towards curbing violence in the area, and community involvement plays a critical role in these efforts.

Additional Information

Victim: Carly Elizabeth Johnson, 50 years old.
Suspect: Kenneth Lontrell Christian, 41 years old.
Charges: First-degree murder.
Current Status of Suspect: Held without bond at Buncombe County Detention Facility.
Time of Incident: Approximately 3:23 a.m. on Tuesday.
Location: Interstate 26 east at exit 33.
Investigation Status: Ongoing.

FAQ Section

What happened on Interstate 26 east at exit 33?

An Asheville man has been charged with first-degree murder following a homicide investigation that began early Tuesday morning. The incident occurred on Interstate 26 east at exit 33 around 3:23 a.m. when police responded to a report of a disabled driver.

Who was the victim?

The victim of the serious assault was identified as 50-year-old Carly Elizabeth Johnson, who later died from her injuries.

Who is the suspect?

The driver of the vehicle, identified as 41-year-old Kenneth Lontrell Christian, has been charged with first-degree murder.

What is the current status of the suspect?

Kenneth Lontrell Christian is being held in the Buncombe County Detention Facility without bond.

How many homicides have been investigated by the Asheville Police Department this year?

This is the fourth homicide investigated by the Asheville Police Department in the current year.

What should individuals do if they have information about the case?

Police encourage anyone with information to contact the Asheville Police Department at 828-252-1110 or submit anonymous tips via text to TIP2APD at 847411 or through the TIP2APD smartphone app.