What happened on the Southport waterfront
Authorities say a deadly shooting unfolded Saturday evening at the Southport Yacht Basin, near the waterfront bar known as the American Fish Company. The incident began around 9:30 p.m. when someone on a boat approached the outdoor venue and opened fire. After dispersing the patrons, the shooter continued along the Intracoastal Waterway before leaving the scene. The city and state agencies quickly mobilized emergency responders as the situation developed along the coast of Southport, North Carolina.
The aftermath was launched by a chaotic night on the water, with witnesses and first responders rushing to aid the wounded and secure the area. Residents along the waterfront were advised to avoid the area and shelter in place as authorities scaled up the search for the shooter and any accomplices.
The suspect and charges
Court documents identify the suspect as Nigel Max Edge, 40, of Oak Island. He has been charged with three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder, and five counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill or inflict serious injury. Prosecutors said additional charges are pending as investigators continue to examine the full sequence of events and any potential motives.
Authorities respond and investigation
City spokeswoman ChyAnn Ketchum described an active and coordinated law enforcement response. The city posted a notice on its Facebook page just before 10 p.m. warning residents about reports of an active shooter and advising people to stay away from the waterfront and remain indoors.
Shortly after, the U.S. Coast Guard reported locating and detaining a person matching the shooter’s description as he was loading a boat at the public boat ramp on NE 55th Street in Oak Island. The suspect is currently in custody with the Oak Island Police Department and will be turned over to the Southport Police Department for questioning, with assistance from the State Bureau of Investigation.
This remains an active investigation. Edge’s first court appearance is scheduled for Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Brunswick County Courthouse as officials continue to gather evidence and determine the full scope of the incident.
Legal process and what comes next
As law enforcement works to piece together the sequence of events, prosecutors are expected to detail additional charges if warranted as the investigation progresses. The involvement of the State Bureau of Investigation underscores the seriousness of the case and the ongoing coordination among local, state, and federal resources to bring clarity to what occurred on the Southport waterfront and to ensure public safety in the wake of the shootings.
Community impact and safety reminders
The shooting at the waterfront bar shocked a coastal community accustomed to peaceful evenings along the Cape Fear. Local officials urged residents and visitors to remain vigilant and to rely on official updates from Southport Police and the SBI as the investigation unfolds. Businesses along the waterfront, normally bustling with activity, are now monitoring the investigation and assisting in the recovery process for those affected by the tragedy.
