BMPD praises 'extraordinary courage' of community in armed encounter downtown

Patrons and staff in local restaurant reportedly subdue subject in incident

Fred McCormick
The Valley Echo
July 3, 2026

The actions of staff, patrons and other members of the public were praised, July 3, by Black Mountain Police, who credited courage and quick response to reported downtown incident. Photo by Fred McCormick

An incident at a business in downtown Black Mountain, July 2, was resolved without injury, when citizens reportedly subdued an armed subject who was allegedly making threatening statements inside the establishment.

Local law enforcement officials lauded the actions of Trailhead employees, patrons and other community members, July 3, as the Black Mountain Police Department issued a press release with information about the disturbance.

Officers arrested 76-year-old Charles Donald Wilson, who was charged with going armed to the terror of the public, brandishing a firearm and intoxicated and disruptive behavior, after being transported to the Buncombe County Detention Facility. The subject was reportedly asked to leave the establishment earlier that day, according to the statement, before allegedly returning, around 5:37 p.m., with a weapon.

“It was further alleged that Wilson made statements indicating he would return with a firearm and harm individuals inside the restaurant,” BMPD officials said in the release. “Upon returning to the business, Wilson allegedly entered the establishment while armed and made actions and statements that caused immediate concern for the safety of those present.”

Members of the public, the narrative continued, “acted quickly and courageously” to restrain the subject until law enforcement arrived to secure the scene.

“The BMPD would like to express sincere appreciation and recognition to the citizens, patrons, staff members and everyone involved for their cooperation, patience and concern for one another during an extremely tense and rapidly evolving situation,” the press release stated. “The actions displayed by members of our community exemplified extraordinary courage and selflessness under difficult circumstances. While incidents of this nature are extremely rare in Black Mountain, they are inherently dangerous and unpredictable.”

Officials credit the calm actions and assistance of the public with resolving the reported incident.

“We are exceptionally grateful that this incident ended without serious injury or loss of life,” the department stated. “The safety of our community remains our highest priority, and we are proud to serve a community that consistently demonstrates strength, resilience and a willingness to look out for one another.”

The investigation into the reported incident remains ongoing, BMPD representatives added, while additional information may be released as it becomes available.