ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — More information about one of the incidents which led to the closure of the Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center pool today has been released.
According to an Asheville Police Department press release, around 3:22 p.m., yesterday, July 1, APD officers responded to a report of a juvenile carrying a firearm at the Southside Center pool.
When officers arrived, the juvenile was arrested and the firearm was safely confiscated. No one was injured during the incident.
In the wake of the arrest, the Southside Center has announced that it will be temporarily closing down the pool for public use, including pool parties and water aerobics.
Read our earlier coverage of the closure here.
“This difficult decision was made after multiple incidents created significant safety concerns at the facility, including a recent incident involving a firearm,” wrote Kim Miller, city communication specialist, in a press release. “Asheville Parks & Recreation is working diligently to institute a security plan and reopen the pool as soon as possible.”
APR director D. Tyrell McGirt elaborated on the decision later in the release.
“This was an incredibly difficult decision, and it was not taken without thoughtful deliberation of the pros and cons for the Asheville community,” McGirt said. “However, the safety and well-being of our residents and staff is our paramount concern. Ensuring a safe environment for everyone is currently impossible until we can enhance security during operating hours.”
In the meantime, swimmers are advised to make use of the five public pools in Buncombe County and the Splasheville water pad in downtown Asheville.