At least three people are dead and eight others injured after a suspect fired gunshots from a boat toward a dockside restaurant in Southport, North Carolina, on Saturday night. Police are conducting a manhunt for the suspect, who fled the scene after opening fire.
The shooting took place in the Southport Yacht Basin, a popular area for bars and restaurants, close to the American Fish Company restaurant. The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, and city officials quickly posted on social media warning of an active shooter in the area. The City of Southport urged residents to avoid the area, remain indoors, and report any suspicious activity to police.
Authorities have confirmed that a boat pulled up to the restaurant, fired multiple shots in its direction, and then sped off. Details about the suspect and the motive for the shooting are still under investigation. The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office is assisting the City of Southport Police Department, along with multiple law enforcement agencies across the county. The search for the suspect is ongoing, and a person of interest is being questioned by authorities. Fox News reported that no arrests have been made, and the case remains under investigation.
Southport is approximately 30 miles south of Wilmington, and the Southport Yacht Basin has several bars and restaurants. A call to action for residents to remain vigilant and avoid the area has been made by local authorities. This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
ACTIVE SHOOTER REPORTED ON THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA’S COLUMBIA CAMPUS
There is also a separate report of an active shooter situation on the University of South Carolina’s Columbia campus, which is being investigated by local law enforcement. Although the incidents are separate, they highlight the ongoing concerns about safety and security in these areas.
The incident in Southport has sparked discussions among law enforcement and community leaders about improving public safety measures and addressing the risks associated with gun violence in such settings. The city and surrounding areas are encouraging residents and visitors to stay informed and take precautions as the investigation continues.
While the full details of the shooting are still under investigation, the tragedy has raised important questions about gun control, mental health, and the potential for such incidents in public spaces. As authorities work to locate the suspect and determine the motive behind the attack, the community remains on high alert, with emergency responders and law enforcement working tirelessly to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors.