On April 18, 2024, at approximately 3:13 p.m., Asheville Police Department officers responded to reports of a shooting in the 160 block of Tunnel Road, a commercial area near the Mountaineer Inn. Upon arrival, they found 33-year-old Oji Trevon Mitchell of Columbia, South Carolina, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. Mitchell was transported to Mission Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and observed Mitchell lying in the parking lot of a strip mall. Investigators determined that Mitchell and the suspect, 24-year-old Kenneth Maurice West Jr. of Rock Hill, South Carolina, were acquainted prior to the incident. The shooting was reportedly preceded by an armed robbery, during which West allegedly stole a multi-colored Gucci bag containing $3,751 in cash and miscellaneous identity documents valued at $3,900 from Mitchell. West was also found in possession of a Glock 27, .40-caliber handgun.
Following the incident, West was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and armed robbery. He was booked into the Buncombe County Detention Facility without bond. Asheville Police Department Captain Joe Silberman confirmed that both individuals were known to South Carolina law enforcement and that the suspect had traveled to Asheville to confront the victim. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to gather information to determine the full circumstances surrounding the case.
Mitchell's death marks the third homicide in Asheville for the year 2024. The community has been urged to provide any additional information that may assist in the investigation. A memorial service for Mitchell was held in Columbia, South Carolina, where family and friends gathered to honor his memory.
The incident has raised concerns about violent crime in the area, prompting discussions among local residents and officials about measures to enhance public safety. Authorities continue to encourage community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help prevent such tragedies in the future.
