A brazen daylight shooting at a Southport, North Carolina restaurant on Saturday night resulted in the deaths of three people and left several others injured. The incident, which occurred around 9:30 p.m. local time at the American Fish Company in the Southport Yacht Basin, has sent shockwaves through the coastal community. Authorities reported that the shooter opened fire from a boat, targeting patrons at the popular establishment before fleeing the scene.
According to initial reports from law enforcement, at least seven people were shot during the attack. Three victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while the remaining injured individuals were transported to area hospitals. The conditions of those hospitalized have not yet been released. The city manager of Southport, Noah Saldo, confirmed that a boat approached the restaurant and fired into the crowd before departing.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear as law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, are actively investigating. Reports suggest that the shooter’s boat was a “white center console boat,” but details regarding the number of individuals on board are still being determined. The city of Southport has urged residents to avoid the area, stay in their homes, and report any suspicious activity to 911 as the investigation continues.
This incident marks a tragic event for Southport, a city approximately 20 miles south of Wilmington. The attack on a public restaurant, particularly one on the water, has raised concerns about safety and security within the community. Local officials are working to provide support to the victims’ families and to reassure residents.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are seeking any information that could lead to the apprehension of the suspect(s). The public has been asked to cooperate with law enforcement and to share any relevant details that might aid in solving this crime. The community is grappling with the aftermath of this violent act, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
