News Summary
A shooting in downtown Asheville resulted in one death and multiple injuries, involving a significant number of rounds fired during a confrontation. The deceased, Andy Garcia Porras, was shot near Rankin Avenue and College Street. Eyewitnesses reported chaos as bystanders were caught in the crossfire, with various injuries reported. The Asheville Police Department is actively investigating and seeking information from the public while assuring there is no ongoing threat. This event has raised concerns regarding public safety and the adequacy of police resources.
Asheville – A shooting incident in downtown Asheville left one person dead and several others injured early Sunday morning, June 1. The deceased has been identified as 26-year-old Andy Garcia Porras, who was shot shortly after midnight near the intersection of Rankin Avenue and College Street.
Guns were fired wildly during the altercation, with eyewitness accounts estimating at least 80 rounds were discharged. Many bystanders were caught in the crossfire, resulting in various injuries. Victims included friends of witnesses who sustained gunshot wounds to the leg and shoulder. One individual was treated at Mission Hospital and is reported to be in stable condition, while others suffered minor grazing injuries.
According to Asheville Police Department Captain Joe Silberman, initial investigations indicate that the gunfire seems to have stemmed from a confrontation between two individuals. Currently, no suspects are in custody, but police have identified several persons of interest in connection with the shooting. Investigators continue to analyze physical evidence from the scene and review surveillance footage.
Investigators discovered a total of 22 shell casings at the site of the gunfight, indicating the ferocity of the incident. The ongoing investigation prompted the closure of the Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge, which was immediately affected by the chaotic environment as patrons scrambled to find safety.
Witnesses reported shock at the rapid escalation of violence. One witness initially mistook the gunfire for the sound of fireworks before recognizing the danger. A nearby bartender recounted the pandemonium that ensued as customers ducked for cover. This confrontation has raised serious concerns about public safety in the downtown area.
In light of the shooting, the Asheville Police Department is actively encouraging anyone who may have information or video footage related to the incident to come forward. Community members can submit tips anonymously via the TIP2APD smartphone application or by texting TIP2APD to 847411.
Fortunately, officials have stated that there is currently no ongoing threat to the public stemming from this incident. However, it reflects the broader challenges faced by the Asheville Police Department, which has been struggling with staffing shortages that have hindered their ability to provide adequate service throughout the city. As part of future safety measures, the department is contemplating reinstating a bike patrol to enhance security in downtown Asheville.
The investigation’s progression will be closely monitored by local authorities and the public. The police are prioritizing the identification and apprehension of those responsible for the violent outbreak, underlining their commitment to ensuring community safety and restoring a sense of security among Asheville’s residents and visitors alike.
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Additional Resources
- WLOS: Asheville Police Department Addresses Downtown Shooting
- WYFF: Asheville Police Investigate Fatal Shooting
- Fox Carolina: Police Report One Dead, Several Injured
- Wikipedia: Asheville, North Carolina
- Google Search: Asheville shooting June 1 2025
