News Summary
A tragic shooting at the American Fish Company restaurant in Southport, North Carolina, left three people dead and at least eight injured. The incident occurred when a shooter fired into a crowd from a boat before fleeing the scene. Authorities are investigating the situation, having detained a person of interest and assured the public that there is no ongoing credible threat. This event raises alarm over continuing gun violence in public spaces across the country.
Southport, North Carolina — Three People Killed and Eight Injured in Marine Shooting
In Southport, North Carolina, a violent shooting incident at the American Fish Company restaurant resulted in the deaths of three individuals and injuries to at least eight others, according to law enforcement officials. The incident occurred late Saturday night, approximately around 9:30 p.m., and has generated widespread concern in the community.
Details of the Incident
The shooting took place at the waterfront restaurant, which is known as a popular pub and live music venue. Reports indicate that an individual aboard a boat fired into a crowd gathered at the marina, leading to multiple casualties. The suspect then fled the scene by heading toward the Intracoastal Waterway, moving in the direction of Oak Island.
Initial reports of injuries fluctuated, with authorities stating that at least eight people were hurt. Later updates suggested that the number of hospitalized individuals might be as low as six, but authorities have yet to provide a final count. The victims’ identities have not been publicly disclosed, as law enforcement officials are working to notify families.
Response from Law Enforcement
Law enforcement agencies quickly responded to the active shooter situation, which was reported shortly after 9:53 p.m. Local police, along with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, have joined the investigation to determine the circumstances of the shooting.
Authorities confirmed that a person of interest was detained by law enforcement shortly after the incident. The U.S. Coast Guard also played a key role by locating and detaining a suspect at a public boat ramp in Oak Island around 10 p.m., shortly after the shooting occurred.
Police have indicated that the motive for the shooting remains unknown at this time. However, officials have assured the public that there is currently ‘no known further credible threat to the public.’
Impact and Precautions
Following the incident, officials issued warnings urging residents and visitors in the area to stay indoors and avoid the vicinity of the marina and surrounding waterfront. Emergency services are actively investigating the scene and assessing security in the region to prevent further violence.
Community and Geographic Context
Southport, a city with a population of just over 4,100 people, is located approximately 160 miles southeast of Raleigh and 32 miles south of Wilmington, North Carolina. The city’s waterfront area is a well-known destination for boating, fishing, and dining, making the incident particularly unsettling for residents and visitors.
Broader Context of Gun Violence
This event adds to the ongoing issue of gun violence in public spaces across the United States. According to recent data, there have been over 320 mass shootings reported nationwide this year alone, highlighting the persistent threat that gun-related violence poses across communities, regardless of size or location.
Next Steps
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, working to establish a motive and gather additional evidence. No further details have been released regarding the suspect’s identity or the precise reasons behind the attack.
Law enforcement officials are also coordinating efforts to ensure public safety and provide support to victims and their families as the community begins to recover from this tragic event.
Summary of Key Facts
- The incident occurred at the American Fish Company restaurant in Southport, North Carolina.
- Three people were killed, and at least eight others were reported injured.
- The shooting happened around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 27.
- The suspect fired from a boat into a crowd at the marina before fleeing toward Oak Island.
- A person of interest was detained, and the U.S. Coast Guard tracked and stopped a suspect at a boat ramp in Oak Island around 10 p.m.
- Several law enforcement agencies are involved in the investigation, including the state’s SBI and the ATF.
- The motive remains unknown, but authorities report no current credible threat to the public.
- The incident highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence in public spaces across the country.
FAQs
- What city did the shooting occur in?
- Southport, North Carolina.
- When did the incident happen?
- On Saturday, September 27, around 9:30 p.m.
- How many people were killed and injured?
- Three people were killed, and at least eight others were injured, with some reports suggesting six hospitalized individuals.
- What was the suspect’s method of fleeing?
- The suspect fled toward the Intracoastal Waterway in the direction of Oak Island.
- Was the suspect detained?
- Yes, authorities have taken a person of interest into custody and detained a suspect at a boat ramp in Oak Island around 10 p.m.
- What agencies are involved in the investigation?
- Local police, the State Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the U.S. Coast Guard.
- Is there a known motive for the shooting?
- No, the motive has not been determined at this time.
- Are there ongoing threats to the public?
- No, authorities have stated there is “no known further credible threat to the public.”
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- CNN
- WECT
- Fox News
- ABC News
- WRAL
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence
- Google Search: Southport North Carolina shooting
- Google News: Southport shooting
- Google Scholar: Gun Violence in Public Spaces
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
