Asheville and Buncombe County: Navigating Crime Surge, Storm Recovery, and New Safety Challenges in 2025

Asheville and Buncombe County continue to face a complex tapestry of challenges in 2025, marked by a notable surge in criminal activity, severe winter storms, and evolving public safety concerns. Despite these hurdles, local agencies, community organizations, and residents demonstrate resilience through strategic law enforcement actions, extensive recovery efforts, and proactive safety initiatives. Recent developments underscore both the ongoing threats and the community’s commitment to stability and renewal.

Escalation in Crime and Law Enforcement Initiatives

Even amid treacherous weather, law enforcement agencies remain resolute in their fight against rising crime. Their recent activities highlight targeted arrests, investigations into violent and drug-related offenses, and efforts to uphold accountability within their ranks.

• High-Profile Arrests and Drug Trafficking Crackdowns:

  • Tyrone Brown, a wanted felon with a violent criminal history, was apprehended during a coordinated operation involving Asheville police and Buncombe County deputies. Authorities recovered a loaded firearm and illegal narcotics, and Brown now faces multiple charges including firearm possession and drug trafficking.
  • Deonte Sincere Gardner, 25, who previously pled guilty to fentanyl trafficking, remains a key figure in ongoing efforts to dismantle opioid networks that continue to devastate the region.

• Recent Drug Trafficking and Trespassing Incidents:

  • On February 20, law enforcement arrested a suspect linked to ongoing drug trafficking activities after a trespassing incident. The individual was found in possession of fentanyl, illustrating how criminal networks exploit vulnerabilities during crises. Asheville police emphasized, “This arrest reflects our commitment to disrupting drug operations and ensuring community safety, especially amid weather-related challenges.”

• Violent Crime and Homicide Investigations:

  • The investigation into Rubilio Renoso’s death remains active; authorities are awaiting autopsy results and exploring whether recent weather conditions played a role.
  • A domestic-related murder on Powell Street was swiftly addressed, with Harold detained, demonstrating law enforcement’s resolve to confront violence decisively regardless of adverse weather.

• Child Exploitation and Peeping Cases:

  • Henderson County authorities recently arrested a man suspected of child exploitation and peeping. In collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security, the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office charged [Name withheld for privacy] with multiple counts related to child exploitation and peeping incidents. This case highlights ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable populations and maintain vigilance against such crimes.

• Impersonation Scams and Community Safety Risks:

  • An impersonation scam suspect operating in Henderson County was arrested after using activated emergency lights on his vehicle to deceive residents. This scam underscores that criminal schemes persist even during emergencies, posing ongoing risks to residents.

• Multi-Day Crime Spree and Legal Actions:

  • A suspect involved in a multi-day crime spree has been charged with more than 50 counts, including violent crimes, theft, and property destruction. This escalation signifies a concerning trend of increasing violence and law enforcement’s intensified response.

• Police Accountability and Internal Investigations:

  • An internal SBI inquiry is underway into Kenneth Hipps, a Hendersonville Police Captain dismissed for falsifying timesheets related to off-duty work. Such investigations highlight efforts to uphold integrity and transparency within law enforcement agencies.

These rapid, strategic actions demonstrate a community actively working to diminish criminal threats, even amid ongoing storms, emphasizing enforcement, accountability, and community trust.

Storm Impact and Emergency Response

The historic winter storm has caused widespread disruptions across utilities, transportation, and essential services, prompting extensive emergency responses:

• Utility Restoration and Support Efforts:

  • Duke Energy mobilized additional crews, restoring power to over 50,000 households affected by fallen trees and gusts reaching up to 35 mph.
  • The North Carolina National Guard (NCNG) increased deployments, assisting with transportation, rescue operations, and supply distribution in the hardest-hit areas.
  • The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) enhanced snowplow training with advanced simulators to improve safety and efficiency during continued hazardous conditions.

• Transportation Hazards and School Closures:

  • Vehicle crashes surged to approximately 750 incidents, underscoring the dangers of icy and snow-covered roads.
  • Many school districts responded with closures or delays: Buncombe County Schools closed on February 2, Asheville City Schools delayed start times, while Henderson County maintained normal operations.
  • A school bus crash during icy conditions resulted in injuries, highlighting ongoing risks faced by students and commuters.

• Community and Health Support Initiatives:

  • The American Red Cross and The Blood Connection launched the 16th annual Battle of the Badges Blood Drive, addressing critical blood shortages worsened by winter disruptions.
  • Residents faced ice-covered driveways, blocked roads, and hampered emergency responses, impacting access to vital services.
  • Delivery services like DoorDash temporarily suspended operations, affecting residents’ access to food and supplies during the storm.

• Federal and State Support:

  • FEMA announced nearly $1.4 million in reimbursements for disaster-related costs from previous storms, such as Hurricane Helene, reflecting ongoing federal support.
  • Infrastructure projects, including the French Broad River water treatment expansion in Hendersonville, are prioritized to ensure water security during crises.
  • Hendersonville’s stormwater department secured nearly $2.5 million in grants to reconnect floodplains and restore streams, reducing flood risks and promoting ecological resilience.

Building Long-Term Resilience

Beyond immediate relief, the community invests in sustainable initiatives to bolster future resilience:

• Environmental and Infrastructure Projects:

  • The ‘bat wall’ project by NCDOT exemplifies sustainable repair efforts designed to protect bat habitats during storm recovery.
  • Hendersonville’s stormwater improvements include reconnecting over 2,000 linear feet of streams, which helps reduce flood risks and supports ecological health.
  • North Carolina allocated $472 million for drinking water and wastewater infrastructure statewide, fostering sustainable growth and climate resilience.

• Community-Led Support and Fundraisers:

  • The ‘Soup Ladies’ organized a fundraiser that raised $18,000, providing 2,500 meals for homebound seniors during the cold winter.
  • Residents organized pickup events distributing blankets, warm clothing, and non-perishable foods to help families stay warm and safe.
  • The community paramedic program in Henderson County continues delivering targeted health and safety services, reducing unnecessary hospital visits.
  • Local breweries like Hi-Wire Brewing and NoDa Brewing launched special IPA beers, with proceeds supporting storm recovery efforts, fostering economic resilience and community bonding.

• Recent Recovery Milestone:

  • The Chimney Rock Post Office has reopened after a 17-month closure caused by Hurricane Helene, marking a significant step in storm recovery and restoring vital postal services.

Political Shifts and Future Governance

Adding to regional dynamics, two prominent Republican candidates are now competing to become the GOP nominee for Buncombe County sheriff. This contest signals potential shifts in law enforcement leadership and policy direction, which could influence future crime prevention strategies, community policing approaches, and resource allocation priorities.

New Public Safety Concerns: Rising Fire Deaths in North Carolina

In addition to crime and weather challenges, North Carolina faces an alarming increase in fire-related fatalities. According to State Fire Marshal Brian Taylor, nearly 53% of deadly house fires in 2025 occurred in homes without a functioning smoke alarm. This rise underscores the critical importance of fire safety measures, especially as colder months prompt increased heating usage and potential hazards. Authorities are urging residents to install and regularly test smoke alarms, emphasizing that simple preventative steps can save lives.

Current Outlook and Ongoing Challenges

While a brief warm spell has temporarily eased some conditions, forecasts warn that winter’s grip remains firm, with additional snowfalls, gusty winds, and dangerous wind chills expected through the end of the week. Coastal and river areas may also experience tidal flooding over the weekend, adding to ongoing risks.

Key priorities moving forward include:

• Maintaining public safety advisories and urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel.
• Continuing criminal investigations, especially into recent drug trafficking, violent crimes, and child exploitation cases.
• Sustaining utility repairs and infrastructure projects, supported by recent federal and state funding.
• Strengthening community preparedness and resilience initiatives to better withstand future crises.

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In summary, Asheville and Buncombe County are navigating a pivotal period marked by a surge in criminal activity, severe weather impacts, and proactive recovery efforts. Law enforcement’s swift responses, combined with significant investments in infrastructure, community programs, and federal support, showcase a region committed to safety, resilience, and renewal. As winter persists and new challenges emerge—including rising fire fatalities—the community’s collective efforts will be crucial in shaping a safer, more resilient future for all residents.