by Southport, NC – A tragic shooting unfolded at the American Fish Company restaurant in Southport, North Carolina, late Saturday night, when a gunman opened fire from a boat, killing three people and wounding at least five others. Authorities swiftly identified and charged the suspect, bringing a somber mood to this waterfront community.
The suspect, Nigel Max Edge, 40, faces multiple serious charges after the devastating incident. Officials have described the attack as highly premeditated and targeted, raising questions and concerns among residents and visitors alike.
The Incident and Arrest
According to Southport’s public information officer, ChyAnn Ketchum, the shooting occurred around 9:30 p.m. when a lone individual in a boat stopped briefly in front of the waterfront restaurant on the Cape Fear River before opening fire. Three patrons were killed, and multiple others were injured during the attack.
After the shooting, the suspect’s boat sped away toward the Intracoastal Waterway, heading for nearby Oak Island. The U.S. Coast Guard spotted a person matching the suspect’s description loading the boat at a public ramp in Oak Island shortly after 10 p.m. He was detained by the Coast Guard and later handed over to Southport police for questioning.
Suspect Background and Charges
Southport Police Chief Todd Coring revealed at a press conference that Edge acted alone and that the shooting was deliberate. The suspect identifies himself as a combat veteran who suffered injuries in the line of duty and reportedly has post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These claims have not yet been independently confirmed.
Authorities noted that Edge, a resident of Oak Island, legally changed his name several years ago and is known to local law enforcement, though he has no significant criminal history. Oak Island Police Chief Charlie Morris indicated that the suspect was familiar to the department, often spending time near the local police pier, and had filed several lawsuits against the police department and the town over recent years.
Community Impact and Victim Status
District Attorney Jon David expressed sorrow for the victims, revealing that at least one injured individual remains in critical condition. The names of the people killed have not been released, but officials mentioned that many victims were visitors rather than local residents.
“Sadly, a lot of the victims in this case appear to be not members of our community, but people who are here on vacation,” said District Attorney Jon David.
The shooting has left a profound impact on the Southport and wider Cape Fear River communities.
Current Legal Status and Ongoing Investigation
- Nigel Max Edge has been charged with three counts of first-degree murder and five counts of attempted first-degree murder.
- Officials have also filed multiple weapons-related charges, with additional charges expected as the investigation continues.
- The authorities confirm there is no ongoing threat to the public following the arrest.
Read Also: 24-Year-Old Meagan Meadows Diagnosed with Stage 3 Colon Cancer After Nearly Missing Her Only Symptom
For further details and ongoing updates on this case, visit the original Fox News report here.
Remembering the Victims and Moving Forward
The Southport shooting serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of violence and its devastating consequences. Community leaders emphasize the importance of vigilance and support for those affected, especially as investigations continue.
Key Facts at a Glance:
- Shooting took place at the American Fish Company restaurant near Cape Fear River.
- Three people killed, five wounded.
- Suspect arrested in Oak Island by U.S. Coast Guard and local police.
- Suspect charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder.
- Investigation ongoing with no further public threat.
What do you think about this tragic event in Southport? Have you visited the American Fish Company or Southport’s waterfront? Share your thoughts and memories in the comments below!
