Asheville, NC, September 4, 2025
News Summary
Asheville Police are investigating a bar shooting that took place at Tiger Mountain Bar. Suspect Juan Francisco Martinez Jr. is armed and dangerous, prompting a community safety alert. A male victim suffered a serious gunshot wound and is receiving treatment at Mission Hospital. Authorities urge the public to avoid approaching the suspect and report any sightings or information to law enforcement.
Asheville Police Search for Armed Felon After Bar Shooting
Asheville, North Carolina – Police are actively investigating a shooting that occurred early Saturday morning at the Tiger Mountain Bar in downtown Asheville. The incident, which unfolded around 12:37 a.m. on August 30, involved a conflict that escalated into violence, ultimately leading to gunfire in a nearby parking lot.
Juan Francisco Martinez Jr., a 36-year-old convicted felon, has been charged in connection with the shooting but remains at large. Authorities are considering him armed and dangerous. The public is advised not to approach Martinez if he is spotted and to report any information about his whereabouts to law enforcement.
The police were initially alerted to the situation when an officer patrolling the area witnessed the confrontation inside the bar. Upon their arrival, officers found a male victim suffering from a serious gunshot wound to the leg. Life-saving aid, including the application of a tourniquet, was provided by the police until emergency medical services (EMS) arrived on the scene. The victim was subsequently transported to Mission Hospital for further treatment.
According to reports, the fight had originated inside Tiger Mountain Bar and then migrated one block north to a parking lot, where a second altercation sparked various responses. Witnesses stated that Martinez retrieved a large-caliber handgun from a vehicle during the second fight and fired at another man.
Martinez is described as a Hispanic male, approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall, weighing around 160 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. The Asheville Police Department urges anyone with information regarding Martinez’s location to contact them at 828-252-1110 or call 911. Individuals who wish to remain anonymous can use the TIP2APD service or the respective smartphone application.
The incident has raised alarm regarding public safety in the area, particularly on Lexington Avenue, which has been noted as a hotspot for violence. Over the past two years, there have been 14 reported violent incidents and 36 gun-related calls in this locale. The owner of Tiger Mountain Bar, Patrick Keith, stated that his establishment is being unfairly associated with the shooting incident and contended that the fight began outside the venue.
Keith expressed concerns over the police report that seemed to link the bar directly to the incident. As the investigation continues, efforts are being undertaken to recover additional physical evidence and gather testimony from witnesses.
Key Details
- Incident: Shooting at Tiger Mountain Bar
- Date: August 30, 2023
- Location: Downtown Asheville, NC
- Suspect: Juan Francisco Martinez Jr.
- Victim: Male with serious gunshot wound
- Current Status: Martinez at large, considered armed and dangerous
- Public Advisory: Do not approach Martinez, call 911 with any information
Safety Measures and Community Concerns
The surrounding community is understandably anxious following the incident, with residents and business owners worried about rising violence in the area. The police are increasing their patrols and are encouraging community cooperation in reporting suspicious activities.
Investigation Progress
Authorities are continuing to probe the details surrounding the shooting, focusing on collecting more evidence and addressing community safety concerns. They are dedicated to ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice and restoring peace in the neighborhood.
FAQ Section
What happened at the Tiger Mountain Bar?
A shooting incident occurred after a conflict escalated into gunfire in a nearby parking lot, resulting in one male victim sustaining serious injuries.
Who is the suspect in the bar shooting?
The suspect is identified as Juan Francisco Martinez Jr., a 36-year-old convicted felon, who is currently at large and considered armed and dangerous.
What should I do if I see the suspect?
If you see Juan Francisco Martinez Jr., do not approach him. Instead, call 911 or the Asheville Police Department at 828-252-1110 to report his location.
What has been the response from the community?
Community members are expressing concern about public safety in light of the shooting, particularly on Lexington Avenue, which has seen several violent incidents over the past two years.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Tiger Mountain Bar, Downtown Asheville |
| Time of Incident | 12:37 a.m., August 30, 2023 |
| Involved Parties | Juan Francisco Martinez Jr. (suspect), male victim |
| Victim’s Condition | Serious gunshot wound to the leg |
| Status of Suspect | At large, considered armed and dangerous |
| Community Concerns | Increased violence on Lexington Avenue |
| Investigative Actions | Collecting evidence, witness testimonies |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Trouble in TicketLand: Error 401 Not Allowed Roams TicketMaster Users
Soprana Rooftop Cucina Hosts Fundraiser for BeLoved Asheville
Asheville Man Arrested for Stabbing Tourist with Needle
Tragic Shooting of Young Boy in Houston
Shooting Incident at Tiger Mountain Bar Leaves One Injured
Asheville Police Charge Suspect in Shooting Incident
Asheville Police Search for Suspect in Downtown Shooting
Asheville Police Search for Armed Suspect After Bar Shooting
Shooting Incident in Downtown Asheville Leaves One Injured
Suspect Arrested After Shooting at Anaconda Bar
Additional Resources
- WYFF4 News
- WLOS News
- 828 News Now
- Fox Carolina
- WSPA News
- Wikipedia: Asheville, North Carolina
- Google Search: Asheville bar shooting
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
