Asheville, NC, September 2, 2025

News Summary

Police in Asheville, North Carolina are on the lookout for Juan Francisco Martinez Jr., a convicted felon accused of shooting a man outside Tiger Mountain Bar following a dispute. The incident resulted in serious injuries to the victim, who was taken to Mission Hospital for treatment. Authorities warn the public not to approach Martinez, who is considered armed and dangerous, and are urging anyone with information to contact law enforcement immediately.

Asheville Police Hunt for Armed Suspect Juan Francisco Martinez Jr. After Bar Shooting Incident

Asheville, North Carolina police are actively searching for Juan Francisco Martinez Jr., a 36-year-old convicted felon, who is considered armed and dangerous following a shooting incident at Tiger Mountain Bar. The altercation, which occurred shortly after midnight on August 30, resulted in serious injury to another individual.

The shooting incident began inside the bar with a dispute among several patrons, which subsequently escalated and moved into the parking lot. It was there that Martinez is accused of shooting another man in the leg during a heated confrontation.

Authorities were alerted to the gunfire at approximately 12:37 a.m. by an officer who was patrolling in the vicinity. Upon arrival, officers discovered the victim suffering from a significant gunshot wound. They provided immediate medical assistance, including applying a tourniquet before the victim was rushed to Mission Hospital for further treatment.

Witnesses reported that before discharging the firearm, Martinez retrieved a large-caliber handgun from a vehicle. Following the shooting, he fled the scene on foot, prompting a widespread manhunt by local law enforcement.

The Asheville Police Department has provided a description of Martinez, noting that he is a Hispanic male, approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall, weighing around 160 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Investigators are urging the public to report any sightings or information regarding his whereabouts.

Residents are strongly advised not to approach Martinez if he is seen, and to contact law enforcement authorities immediately by calling 911. Anyone with information is encouraged to reach out to the Asheville Police Department at 828-252-1110. Additionally, tips can be submitted anonymously through the TIP2APD smartphone application or by texting TIP2APD to 847411.

Background Information

Juan Francisco Martinez Jr. has a history of criminal activity, which raises significant concern regarding his alleged involvement in this recent violent act. The incident’s setting in a local bar during late-night hours highlights the potential for increased risks associated with conflicts in public places. As the investigation continues, the Asheville Police Department remains committed to ensuring community safety and bringing the suspect into custody.

Public Safety Concerns

The Asheville community is urged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The police department emphasizes the importance of community cooperation in addressing crime and maintaining public safety. Regular updates will be provided as the investigation progresses and authorities work to apprehend the suspect.

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Key Details of the Incident

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Additional Resources

• WLOS
• 828 News Now
• Fox Carolina
• WYFF4
• WSPA
• Wikipedia: Asheville, North Carolina
• Google Search: Asheville shooting
• Google Scholar: Asheville shooting incident
• Google News: Asheville 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.