Suspect Charged After Southport Waterfront Shooting Leaves Three Dead, Several Injured
SOUTHPORT, N.C. — Authorities have arrested and charged a man following a deadly mass shooting at the American Fish Company, a popular waterfront bar in Southport, that killed three people and injured at least eight others late Saturday night.
Gunfire From a Boat
According to Southport Police Chief Todd Coring, the suspect, Nigel Edge, allegedly opened fire around 9:30 p.m. on Sept. 27 from a boat at the Southport Yacht Basin.
Investigators say Edge used a short-barrel AR rifle equipped with a suppressor, folding stock, and scope to target patrons at the crowded bar.
Arrest and Charges
Edge was arrested later that evening after the U.S. Coast Guard spotted him at the Oak Island public boat ramp on NE 55th Street and detained him around 10 p.m. He was then turned over to the Oak Island Police Department before being transferred into Southport Police custody with assistance from the State Bureau of Investigation.
Court records show Edge has been charged with:
- Three counts of first-degree murder
- Five counts of attempted first-degree murder
- Five counts of assault with a deadly weapon
He is scheduled to appear in court Monday at 2 p.m.
Victims and Injuries
The City of Southport confirmed that three victims were killed, though their names are being withheld until families are notified. At least eight others were injured, with six taken to the hospital. Two additional victims may have refused treatment at the scene.
The conditions of the hospitalized victims remain unclear.
Community Reassured
Officials emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public, with additional law enforcement agencies stationed throughout the area to provide security.
Chief Coring noted that officers are working with state and federal partners to ensure the investigation is thorough.
Residents of Southport expressed grief and shock, with many calling for stronger measures to prevent future violence in community gathering spaces.
Do you believe North Carolina should increase security around waterfront venues and public events to prevent shootings like this? Share your views in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
