On June 24, 2024, a tragic incident occurred at an apartment complex on Livingston Street in Asheville, North Carolina, resulting in the death of 40-year-old Ashley Ryan Waddell. Responding to reports of a shooting around 8 p.m., Asheville police discovered four individuals injured: three with gunshot wounds and one with blunt force trauma. Ashley Waddell succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
In the aftermath of the shooting, authorities arrested 23-year-old Isaiah Rayshawn Waddell, identified as one of the shooters involved in the incident. He was charged with attempted first-degree murder for allegedly shooting a 16-year-old juvenile who had fatally shot his mother, Ashley Waddell, moments earlier. Isaiah was booked into the Buncombe County Detention Facility under no bond, rendering him ineligible for release.
The incident has deeply affected the Waddell family. Ashley's mother, Diane Brigmon, expressed profound grief over the loss of her daughter, describing her as a vibrant and positive individual who was always smiling. Family members have indicated that Ashley was attempting to defend her boyfriend during an altercation when she was fatally shot. In response, her son Isaiah reportedly returned fire in defense of his mother. The family is now seeking justice for both Ashley and Isaiah, believing that his actions were in defense of his mother.
The Asheville Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Detectives have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community assistance in resolving the case. This tragedy marks the fifth homicide in Asheville for the year 2024, highlighting ongoing concerns about violence in the community.
