A shocking mass shooting disrupted the calm of Southport, North Carolina, leaving three dead and five others injured. Authorities say the attack was highly premeditated and that the waterfront bar targeted was deliberately chosen.
Details of the Attack
The suspect, Nigel Edge, 40, of Oak Island, allegedly opened fire on Saturday night from a boat at the American Fish Company, a popular bar in Southport, about 30 miles south of Wilmington. Police said Edge piloted a small boat close to shore, stopped briefly, and fired into the crowd before fleeing the scene.
A U.S. Coast Guard crew located a person matching Edge’s description about 30 minutes later at a public boat ramp on Oak Island. He was detained and turned over to Southport police. Edge is currently held without bond and is scheduled to make his first court appearance on Monday.
Charges and Weapon
Edge faces multiple serious charges:
- Three counts of first-degree murder
- Five counts of attempted first-degree murder
- Five counts of assault with a deadly weapon
Police confirmed the weapon used was an assault rifle, though specifics have not been disclosed. Officials have also indicated that Edge is a self-identified combat veteran and claims to suffer from PTSD.
Victims and Community Impact
Among the five injured, at least one remains in critical condition. Some victims were vacationers visiting the area. Police have not yet released the names of the deceased or injured. The community of Southport, a scenic historic port town, has been left reeling from the tragedy.
Background on the Suspect
Authorities reported that Edge was known to local police and had previously filed lawsuits against the town and police department. Oak Island Police Chief Charlie Morris stated that Edge frequently spent time on the pier, though previous police interactions were minor and did not suggest he was capable of such an attack.
Multiple agencies, including the State Bureau of Investigation and the Coast Guard, are actively investigating the incident, collecting evidence, and interviewing witnesses.
Law Enforcement Statements
Southport Police Chief Todd Coring emphasized that the location of the attack was deliberately chosen. District Attorney Jon David noted that while Edge had minor prior police contacts, nothing indicated he could commit such a violent act. Authorities continue to investigate the motive and possible connections to the suspect’s military background and PTSD claims.
This event has drawn national attention due to the premeditated nature of the shooting and the unusual method of using a boat to attack a crowded bar. Officials urge anyone with information to come forward to aid the ongoing investigation.
References
- Source: Associated Press
- Source: Local Police Department Statements
- Source: U.S. Coast Guard
Disclaimer: This article is based on official police statements, court filings, and credible news sources. It is intended for informational purposes only and may not reflect the final outcomes of ongoing legal proceedings.
