A night of music and calm at the Southport Yacht Basin turned into horror on Saturday, September 27, when gunfire erupted at the American Fish Company restaurant.
Authorities have identified 17-year-old Davis Jones as the suspected shooter. According to police, Jones opened fire from a boat near the restaurant, using rifles.
The attack left three people dead and at least eight others injured, though early reports suggested as many as 16 people were wounded. Officials say the conditions of the injured remain unclear.
Witnesses described scenes of chaos as patrons scrambled for safety after the gunman began shooting without warning.
The City of Southport issued an emergency alert shortly before 10 p.m., urging residents to avoid the Yacht Basin and remain indoors.
đź”´ Key Updates:
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Three confirmed dead at the scene (figures may change as investigation continues)
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At least eight others wounded
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Suspect fled in a white center-console boat
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Shooter still at large, considered armed and dangerous
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Incident began shortly before 9:30 p.m.
A city spokesperson confirmed that a person of interest was being questioned, though police continue their urgent search for Jones, who remains at large.
Local residents shared their shock and grief on social media.
Patrick Kiernan wrote, “This kind of thing doesn’t happen in Southport. The biggest thing on our police blotter is someone got a warning for not using a blinker. I’m so sad.”
Another resident, Sarah Marie Prevatte, said, “Every time there’s violence or a shooting in our country, it shakes us. Tonight feels different, because it’s right here in our own area. What leads someone to do that? Schools, grocery stores, restaurants—these should be safe places.”
Police are asking anyone with information about the suspect’s whereabouts to immediately call 911.
Southport, a small coastal town just 20 miles south of Wilmington, is now grappling with the unthinkable — a mass shooting that has left the community shaken and searching for answers.
