A quiet September evening at the Southport Yacht Basin descended into chaos when gunfire erupted from a passing boat, leaving three people dead and at least eight others injured. The attack happened between 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Saturday, September 27, near the popular American Fish Company restaurant.
Witnesses said a single-engine white center-console boat pulled up near the marina before shots rang out, sending diners and tourists scrambling for cover. The gunman fled along the Intracoastal Waterway toward Oak Island, but a man matching the suspect’s description was later detained at a boat ramp.
While law enforcement has not formally named the shooter, social media and local reports have identified the alleged gunman as Nigel Max Edge, a Brunswick County resident with a troubled past.
From Sean DeBevoise to Nigel Edge
Investigators and online sleuths believe that “Nigel Max Edge” is the new identity of Sean William DeBevoise, a 40-year-old former U.S. Marine. DeBevoise enlisted after the September 11 attacks and served multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as a humanitarian mission in Haiti.
Military records and his own writings suggest he suffered traumatic injuries, including a suspected head wound in 2005. Following his service, he reportedly struggled with schizophrenia, paranoia, and erratic behavior.
Memoir and Legal Battles
In 2020, DeBevoise self-published a memoir titled Headshot: Betrayal of a Nation (Truth Hurts), in which he described his combat experiences, injuries, and deep mistrust of the U.S. military. The book accuses the Marine Corps of betrayal and details his feelings of abandonment after being wounded.
Beyond writing, DeBevoise—under his new name, Nigel Edge—became known in legal circles for filing numerous pro se lawsuits. Federal court records confirm that he pursued multiple civil rights cases under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, accusing government agencies, local law enforcement, and even celebrities of conspiracies against him. Most of these suits were dismissed.
Social Media Footprint
On Facebook, Edge shared long posts alleging attempts on his life, poisoning of his food, and harassment by what he described as a “white supremacist LGBTQ network.” He also claimed ties to sex-trafficking conspiracies and government surveillance.
An image circulating online shows Edge with a dog, which matches witness descriptions of a dog being seen aboard the shooter’s vessel on Saturday night.
Links to Celebrity Circles
DeBevoise briefly surfaced in celebrity news when he attended the 2012 CMT Awards as country singer Kellie Pickler’s date. Years later, he filed a lawsuit accusing her of attempting to kill him, one of many bizarre legal claims associated with his name.
Community in Shock
For Southport, a peaceful waterfront town known for its marinas and small-town charm, the shooting has left deep scars. Police Chief Todd Coring called it “a very tragic night” but reassured residents that the suspect is no longer a threat.
Six victims were transported to hospitals in Wilmington and Southport, while three others were treated at the scene. The conditions of the injured remain uncertain.
Authorities, including the Southport Police Department, Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, State Bureau of Investigation, and U.S. Coast Guard, are now working together to investigate the shooting.
What We Know So Far
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Suspect’s Reported Name | Nigel Max Edge (formerly Sean William DeBevoise) |
| Age | 40 |
| Background | Former U.S. Marine, Iraq/Afghanistan veteran |
| Identity Change | Legally changed name after military service |
| Publications | Headshot: Betrayal of a Nation (2020) |
| Legal History | Multiple pro se civil rights lawsuits |
| Detained | By U.S. Coast Guard near Oak Island boat ramp |
| Casualties | 3 dead, at least 8 injured |
FAQs
Q: Has the suspect been officially named by police?
A: No. Authorities have detained a person of interest but have not formally identified him. Social media reports link him to the name Nigel Max Edge.
Q: Was the shooting random or targeted?
A: Officials have not confirmed a motive. Witnesses say the gunman fired indiscriminately at diners and bystanders.
Q: What happens next?
A: The suspect remains in custody. Formal charges and identity confirmation are expected once the investigation progresses.
