Asheville Community in Mourning: Friends and Coworkers Remember William Wyatt Adair After Fatal Shooting.

Asheville Community in Mourning, Friends and Coworkers Remember William Wyatt Adair After Fatal Shooting.

The Asheville community is grieving the loss of 20-year-old William Wyatt Adair, a beloved employee at the downtown pizzeria PIE.ZAA, who was tragically killed in a shooting on Monday, March 9. Friends, coworkers, and loved ones say his death has left a deep void in their lives and in the workplace where he was known for his warmth and uplifting personality.

According to the Asheville Police Department, officers responded to reports of a gunshot victim along Patton Avenue near New Leicester Highway. When they arrived, they discovered Adair suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite efforts to help him, he was pronounced dead. Authorities said the suspect in the incident later shot himself and remains in critical condition.

Adair worked at the popular Asheville pizzeria, where coworkers say he was more than just an employee—he was a cherished friend who made every shift brighter. In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, the restaurant announced the loss of their longtime team member and expressed sympathy for everyone affected by the tragedy, particularly his family, girlfriend, and close friends. The business temporarily closed its doors to allow staff time to mourn and process the heartbreaking news.

Coworker Caleb Knight said the entire team is still struggling to come to terms with the loss. He described Adair as funny, hardworking, and deeply passionate about both food and customer service. “He made work here just that much better every shift we had with him,” Knight said.

Founder and CEO Tyler Kotch added that Adair had a natural ability to lighten any room. Friends like Ridge Hendrix also shared emotional tributes, describing Adair as a brother figure who always listened and supported others.