Asheville Man Arrested After Gunfire at Patton Avenue Motel
ASHEVILLE, N.C. — A 32-year-old man has been arrested and charged after police say he opened fire outside a Patton Avenue motel in Asheville on Wednesday afternoon, prompting a swift response from undercover officers already in the area.
Suspect Fired Shots During Altercation
According to the Asheville Police Department, undercover detectives were conducting surveillance near the Rock Haven Motel around 2:53 p.m. when they witnessed a fight break out between two men. During the altercation, authorities say Ciano Kimble pulled out a firearm and fired multiple shots at the other man.
Bullets struck an occupied motel room and a nearby vehicle, but no injuries were reported. Kimble fled on foot, discarding the gun as he ran. Officers quickly moved in and made the arrest, recovering the firearm.
Multiple Charges Filed Against Kimble
Police confirmed Kimble faces a range of charges, including:
- Felony assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill
- Felony possession of a firearm by a felon
- Misdemeanor carrying a concealed gun
- Misdemeanor discharge of a firearm within city limits
- Misdemeanor going armed to terrorize people
- Misdemeanor resisting a public officer
A magistrate set his bond at $250,000 secured, or $25,000 to a bondsman, with Kimble currently being held in the Buncombe County Detention Facility.
Additional Guns and Drugs Found
Following the arrest, detectives executed search warrants on motel rooms and vehicles linked to the case. Authorities reported seizing another firearm, 5.5 grams of fentanyl, and 2 grams of crack cocaine, further intensifying the investigation.
Captain Joe Silberman praised his officers, stating, “The people I’d like to thank the most, though, are the brave members of our street crime unit that sprang into action immediately.”
Ongoing Investigation
Police have not said whether another man who was seen detained on camera hours later is connected to the incident. The Asheville Police Department confirmed the investigation remains active, with assistance from the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office.
Residents in the Patton Avenue corridor expressed concern over the afternoon violence, as stray gunfire endangered motel guests and nearby motorists.
Have you witnessed increased police activity or crime concerns near Patton Avenue or other parts of Asheville? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
