Police searching for wanted shooting suspect in North Carolina

NORTH CAROLINA — The Asheville Police Department is searching for a convicted felon charged in a shooting that occurred early Saturday morning, August 30, in downtown Asheville.

Authorities said Juan Francisco Martinez Jr., 36, faces charges including assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury, assault by pointing a gun, and possession of a firearm by a felon. Martinez remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous.

APD officers responded to North Lexington Avenue near Hiawassee Street around 12:37 a.m. after an officer heard gunshots.

Upon arrival, they found a victim with a serious gunshot wound to the leg. Officers provided life-saving aid and applied a tourniquet until EMS arrived. The victim was transported to Mission Hospital for treatment.

Investigators reported that the incident stemmed from a disturbance at the Tiger Mountain Bar.

Witnesses said multiple people were involved in a fight inside the bar before leaving on foot and engaging in a second altercation in a nearby parking lot. During that confrontation, a male suspect fired a large-caliber handgun at another man before fleeing.

Martinez is described as a Hispanic male, 5 feet 7 inches tall, weighing approximately 160 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Police advise the public not to approach him and to call 911 immediately if seen.

Anyone with information on Martinez’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Asheville Police Department at 828-252-1110. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the TIP2APD smartphone app or by texting TIP2APD to 847411.