Former Shell Station Employee Faces Murder Charge in Employer’s Death

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

A former employee of a Shell station in Asheville, North Carolina, has been charged wiht murder in connection with the death of his employer. The suspect, identified as Brandon Michael Hill, 25, is accused of fatally shooting John Thomas Martin, 63, on august 16, 2024, at the shell station located on Tunnel Road.

details of the Incident

According to the Asheville Police Department (APD), officers responded to a call at the Shell station around 10:30 PM on August 16, 2024, regarding a shooting. Upon arrival, they found Martin suffering from a gunshot wound. Martin was transported to Mission Hospital, where he later died.

Investigators quickly identified Hill as a suspect. He was a recently terminated employee of the Shell station. A motive for the shooting is still under inquiry, but initial reports suggest it may be related to the termination of his employment. Hill was apprehended by police on August 17, 2024, following a brief pursuit.

Court Appearance and Charges

Brandon Hill made his initial court appearance on August 17, 2024, at the Buncombe County Detention Center. He is charged with first-degree murder. Buncombe County Court records confirm the charge. He is being held without bond.

During the court appearance, a probable cause hearing was held, and details of the investigation were presented. The prosecution outlined evidence linking Hill to the crime, including witness statements and surveillance footage from the Shell station. The defense requested a court-appointed attorney.

Victim Background

John Thomas Martin was a long-time resident of Asheville and owned the Shell station for over 20 years. he was described by neighbors and acquaintances as a kind and generous man. Asheville Citizen Times reports that a local community group has started a fundraising campaign to support Martin’s family.

Ongoing Investigation

The Asheville Police Department continues to investigate the shooting. They are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact the APD at 828-259-5910.

Key Takeaways:

• Brandon Michael Hill, a former Shell station employee, has been charged with the murder of his former employer, John Thomas Martin.
• The shooting occurred on August 16, 2024, at a Shell station on Tunnel Road in Asheville, North Carolina.
• Hill was apprehended on august 17, 2024, and is being held without bond.
• The motive for the shooting is currently under investigation, but is believed to be related to Hill’s recent termination.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

Ryley Ober is the Public Safety reporter for Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Email her at rober@gannett.com and follow her on Twitter @ryleyober