West Asheville shooting now a homicide; investigation underway

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — A 20-year-old shooting victim from Wednesday night has died.

The Asheville Police Department says Kanize Jackson, 20, of Asheville, was shot and killed Wednesday, August 5, 2020, along Buffalo Street in West Asheville at around 7:20 p.m.

ARREST MADE AFTER TUESDAY NIGHT SHOOTING IN ASHEVILLE

When officers arrived on the scene they found Jackson suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound.

Jackson was transported to Mission Hospital and later died as a result of the injuries.

"We do not have anybody in custody. We are following up on several leads," said Captain Gary Gudac.

This incident remains under further investigation. Anyone with information on this incident to contact the Asheville Police Department at 828-252-1110.

9 ROUNDS STRUCK WEST ASHEVILLE HOME AFTER 3RD SHOOTING IN 2 DAYS, POLICE SAY

This is the 9th victim of a homicide in Asheville since January 1, 2020. During this same time period, the Asheville Police Department has responded to 341 calls for service related to shots fired.

Last year at this time, there were only three homicides and 296 calls.

Gudac said they've definitely seen an increase in violent crime lately.

"There’s a lot going on, not only in Asheville but in North Carolina and nationwide right now," he added. "I think when you look at various issues throughout the nation there is an uptick in violence, violent crime and Asheville is not the only place that is experiencing that."

Gudac said for cases like this, they need help from the community.

"We need people to step forward. We know people know things, and we know people see things, and we know people are discouraged at times from sharing that information with us, but in order for us to do our job, we’ve got to have a partnership with the community," he added.

This is a developing story. Check back at wlos.com for the latest updates.

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