News Summary
Asheville Academy, a therapeutic school in Weaverville, has announced its voluntary closure following the suicides of two students within weeks of each other. The incidents raised serious concerns regarding the mental health practices at the facility, prompting investigations by state authorities. The school, specializing in residential treatment for girls, emphasized its commitment to ensuring a smooth transition for all remaining students as it ceases operations. Several agencies are involved in addressing the consequences of these tragedies and ensuring the safety of other vulnerable individuals.
Weaverville, North Carolina – Asheville Academy, a therapeutic school in Weaverville, North Carolina, has announced its voluntary closure following the tragic suicides of two of its students in May 2025. In a statement released on Tuesday, the facility emphasized its commitment to ensuring a smooth transition for all students, with the last clients being discharged by Saturday, May 31, 2025.
The first suicide, involving a 13-year-old girl, occurred on May 3, 2025. This incident triggered an investigation by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS). A second suicide, involving a 12-year-old girl, took place just weeks later on May 29, 2025. The rapid succession of these two tragedies has raised significant concerns regarding the well-being and safety of the students at the facility.
Law enforcement agencies, including the Fayetteville County Sheriff’s Office, confirmed their response to both suicide incidents at the nonprofit facility located at 530 Upper Flat Creek Road. In the wake of the investigations, NCDHHS performed a site survey starting May 8, 2025, shortly after the first suicide was reported. Following the second incident, on May 27, future admissions to Asheville Academy were suspended due to identified violations of mental health service licensing rules.
The NCDHHS cited that “conditions in the facility are found to be detrimental to the health and safety of the clients,” leading to a heightened review of Asheville Academy’s practices and procedures. Although the facility’s license has not been revoked, the admission suspension took effect on May 28, 2025. NCDHHS officials collaborated closely with both the Buncombe County Department of Social Services and the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office to address the emerging safety concerns.
Asheville Academy specializes in residential treatment for girls aged 10 to 18, focusing on issues such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. With its closure, a significant number of clients have been affected, leading to the deactivation of the facility’s social media pages. However, their official website remains accessible as of June 3, 2025.
The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office expressed condolences to the families affected by these tragedies, reaffirming their dedication to provide support for the families’ needs during this distressing period.
As the community processes this heartbreaking news, local health officials emphasize the importance of mental health awareness and seeking help in challenging times. Asheville Academy’s decision to close highlights the serious ramifications of the recent events and sparks a conversation about the importance of safeguarding the mental health of vulnerable populations.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the challenges that many young individuals face and the critical need for effective mental health support systems. The investigation by the NCDHHS continues as authorities seek to ensure that similar situations do not occur in the future.
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Asheville Academy Closes Following Student Suicides
Additional Resources
- WLOS News
- ABC News
- Spectrum Local News
- Google Search: Asheville Academy mental health issues
- Wikipedia: Youth mental health
