Fugitive James Eugene Cole III Sought by Law Enforcement in Buncombe County
In Buncombe County, North Carolina, law enforcement agencies including the U.S. Marshals are searching for James Eugene Cole III, a fugitive who fled from deputies attempting a traffic stop. The chase ended in a crash on Old Fort Road, and…

Greenville Spartanburg Asheville Anderson, SC, July 29, 2026 —
Buncombe County, NC – Law enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Marshals, are actively searching for James Eugene Cole III, a fugitive who evaded deputies during a traffic stop in Buncombe County, North Carolina.
The incident began when deputies attempted to initiate a traffic stop. Cole III reportedly fled from the deputies, leading to a pursuit. The chase concluded when Cole III’s vehicle was involved in a crash on Old Fort Road.
Following the collision, James Eugene Cole III abandoned his vehicle and fled the scene on foot. Authorities have not released further details regarding the circumstances leading to the initial traffic stop or the timeline of events after the crash.
The U.S. Marshals have joined local law enforcement in the ongoing manhunt for Cole III. The public is urged to report any sightings or information regarding his whereabouts to the authorities. Details regarding any alleged charges or the reasons for the initial traffic stop were not immediately available.
Story summarized from the original created by Tyler Scott on www.foxcarolina.com, see more information here.
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