Carl Lee Ellington Jr., a 24-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on January 30, 2022, in Asheville, North Carolina. Carl, also known as "Rod" or "Flacco Valentino," was born on December 22, 1997, in Asheville. He attended Erwin High School, where he was an avid wrestler, and graduated on June 17, 2017. Carl was a loving father, brother, son, and friend, known for his infectious laughter and the knowledge he shared with those around him.
He is survived by his father, Carl Lee Ellington Sr., his children, K’lenani Hardin-Ellington, Zaven Hudgins, and Zylone Ellington, his sister KeyShaunna Ellington, his brother Devonte Ellington, and his lifelong partner Zianna Hudgins.
On the fateful day of January 30, 2022, Carl Lee Ellington Jr. was shot multiple times at the Spruce Hill Apartments in East Asheville. He was transported to Mission Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The Asheville Police Department responded to a report of gunshot wounds at around 3:38 a.m. on the 100 block of Spruce Hill Lane. Upon arrival, officers found Carl and another victim, Staekwon Tyjai Taylor, who was also shot multiple times and was in critical condition.
The investigation into Carl Lee Ellington Jr.'s death led to the arrest of Jalia Love Jones, a 19-year-old woman from Asheville. Jones was charged with first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and second-degree trespassing. She was taken into custody by Asheville police on the same day as the shooting and is being held at the Buncombe County Detention Center under a bond of $400,000. The case remains under investigation, with authorities exploring the possibility of other individuals being involved in the incident.
Carl Lee Ellington Jr.'s death marked the first homicide in Asheville for the year 2022. The community mourned the loss of a young man who brought joy and wisdom to those around him. His funeral service was held on February 12, 2022, at Nazareth First Baptist Missionary Baptist Church in Asheville, followed by his burial at Violet Hill Cemetery. The investigation into his death continues, with the Asheville Police Department urging anyone with information to come forward.
