Shooting Incident Linked to Drug Deal in Asheville

Crime scene at night in Asheville related to drug violence

News Summary

A couple faces multiple charges following a drug deal that escalated into a shooting in Asheville. One man was injured in the incident, raising concerns over drug-related violence. The suspect, Aidan Francis McLean, was arrested with cash and narcotics, alongside his girlfriend, Katrina Lea Vulgamore, who is also charged. The investigation continues as authorities seek public assistance.

Asheville, North Carolina – A couple faces multiple charges after a drug deal led to a shooting incident that occurred in the early hours of May 2. The shooting, which left one man injured, prompted a swift response from the Asheville Police Department and has raised concerns regarding drug-related violence in the area.

At approximately 1:20 a.m., officers were called to Mission Hospital to address reports of a man suffering from a gunshot wound. Upon investigation, authorities determined that the incident took place in the parking lot of a business in the 700 block of Fairview Road, where a dispute erupted during a drug deal. The altercation escalated, leading to the shooting of the victim, who has not yet been publicly identified. Following the incident, the suspect fled the scene.

Law enforcement identified the shooting suspect as Aidan Francis McLean, a 25-year-old resident. On May 8, officers located McLean at a home on Parker Road and took him into custody. During the arrest, police discovered that McLean was in possession of over $9,000 in cash, illegal narcotics, and two firearms, indicating a potentially serious drug operation.

McLean has been charged with several serious offenses, including assault with a deadly weapon with the intent to kill or seriously injure, discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle, and discharging a firearm within city limits. The shooting incident underscores the potential dangers associated with drug-related activities in the region.

Alongside McLean, his girlfriend, Katrina Lea Vulgamore, also aged 25, has been implicated in the case and charged with two counts of accessory after the fact. Both individuals are currently facing additional charges as the investigation progresses. McLean has been booked into the Buncombe County Detention Facility with a secured bond set at $100,000, while Vulgamore’s bond is set at $50,000.

The Asheville Police Department continues to investigate this shooting incident and any related illegal activities. They are appealing to the public for help and urge anyone with information to contact the department at (828) 252-1110. The increase in drug-related violence poses significant challenges for law enforcement, as they work to ensure community safety.

This incident serves to highlight the ongoing issue of drug-related crimes in Asheville and the surrounding areas. As authorities strive to combat these issues, incidents like the shooting emphasize the risks and consequences associated with drug dealings.

Community members are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local law enforcement. The consequences of such actions can be dire, affecting not only those directly involved but also the safety and well-being of the community at large. As the investigation continues, further details about the case and the status of the individuals involved will hopefully emerge, providing clarity on a troubling episode in Asheville’s recent history.