A shooting incident in Southport, North Carolina, led to three fatalities and eight injuries on Saturday when an unidentified individual discharged a firearm from a boat, targeting a busy restaurant on the dock, as confirmed by authorities.
The incident took place around 9:30 pm (local time) on Saturday at the American Fish Company, a well-known pub and restaurant situated at 150 Yacht Basin Drive in the Southport Yacht Basin area, approximately 32 kilometers south of Wilmington.
According to police, at least seven individuals were shot during the assault, with three confirmed dead at the scene, as reported by the Indo-Asian News Service.
City Manager Noah Saldo verified that the shooting transpired when a boat approached the dock and opened fire into the crowd before fleeing. Officials have not yet provided updates regarding the eight individuals who were injured and subsequently hospitalized.
“Several individuals were transported to the hospital,” he stated, indicating that the precise number may fluctuate as emergency services continue their operations.
The city administration released a safety directive advising residents to steer clear of the area, stay indoors, and promptly contact 911 if they observe any suspicious behavior.
“Please avoid the area and remain in your homes. Report any suspicious activity immediately to 911,” the statement indicated.
The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office confirmed their assistance to the Southport Police Department in managing the ongoing situation.
“The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office is aiding the City of Southport Police Department, along with various law enforcement agencies across the county. We ask that you keep all those affected, as well as our first responders, in your thoughts and prayers,” stated the sheriff’s office.
Authorities are actively continuing their investigation into the situation near the American Fish Company, with the suspect still at large.
