Mass shooting in Southport, North Carolina leaves three dead and eight injured

A tragic shooting incident occurred on the evening of Saturday, September 27, 2025, at approximately 9:30 PM, at the American Fish Company, a waterfront bar located in Southport, North Carolina. During this event, a gunman, identified as Nigel Max Edge, opened fire from his boat, targeting patrons present at the bar, resulting in three fatalities and multiple injuries. While specific details about the individuals affected remain undisclosed, authorities confirmed that at least five people sustained injuries in the chaos. Following the attack, Edge fled the scene, navigating his boat up the Intracoastal Waterway towards Oak Island. In response to the shooting, law enforcement quickly mobilized, with the Southport Police Department receiving calls about gunfire and injuries soon after the incident commenced. A warning was also issued to Southport residents urging them to avoid the area as the authorities assessed the situation. By around 10 PM, the U.S. Coast Guard apprehended Edge at a public boat ramp in Oak Island, approximately 20 miles from the shooting site, after receiving descriptions of the suspect. Police Chief Todd Coring later indicated that the shooting seemed to be premeditated, suggesting that Edge had a deliberate intent behind his actions. He defined the shooting as a targeted attack at a specific location rather than a random act of violence. Eyewitness accounts painting a grim picture indicated that patrons inside the bar were enjoying their evening before the shocking violence erupted, which left many in the community grappling with fear and disbelief. As of now, Edge faces multiple charges, including three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted murder, and additional charges related to aggravated assault. He remains held without bond while authorities continue their investigation. The Southport community, a small town with around 4,300 residents, is now reflecting on the tragic events, with officials pledging to provide further updates as more information is uncovered about Edge's past and the motivations behind this disturbing act.