Kevon Tyshawn Ailes, a 25-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on June 23, 2020, in Asheville, North Carolina. Kevon, affectionately known as "Man Man," was a beloved member of the community, known for his big smile and sense of humor. He was a father to his young son, Cole Marlee King, and was cherished by his family and friends.
On the night of June 23, 2020, Kevon was at Walton Street Park in the Southside community of Asheville when he was shot multiple times.
The Asheville Police Department responded to a report of a person suffering from gunshot wounds at approximately 9:02 p.m. Upon arrival, officers found Kevon with multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to Mission Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Following the shooting, two additional victims with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds arrived at Mission Hospital. One victim was treated and released, while the other remained hospitalized. The APD identified and interviewed several persons of interest in the case. Detectives were following up on leads to determine whether the incident was related to another shooting that occurred the previous night at the same park.
Kevon's death deeply affected his family and friends. His father, John-Paul Nelson, who is a cancer survivor, shared that Kevon had returned from time in jail and was working to be a good father. Kevon's mother, Demetria Ailes, expressed her heartbreak over the loss of her son. Friends and acquaintances mourned Kevon's death and condemned the violence in the community.
The investigation into Kevon's death is ongoing, and the APD continues to seek information from the public. Anyone with information about the shootings on June 22 or June 23, 2020, is encouraged to contact the Asheville Police Department or Asheville-Buncombe Crime Stoppers.
