Introduction — a small town shaken
A deadly shooting at the waterfront American Fish Company in Southport, North Carolina late Saturday night left the community stunned. Authorities say multiple people were killed and several others injured after shots were fired from a boat at the popular dock-side restaurant and outdoor bar. The suspect was later detained by law enforcement after fleeing by water. AP News+1
This article summarizes verified facts from official reports, explains what we still don’t know, and offers practical safety and information steps for residents and visitors.
What happened (summary of confirmed facts)
- The shooting occurred at the Southport Yacht Basin near the American Fish Company around 9:30 p.m. local time on Saturday. https://www.wect.com+1
- Three people were killed and at least eight others were injured and taken to hospitals, according to multiple local and national outlets. AP News+1
- Reports indicate the shooter fired from a small boat in the water, then escaped up the Intracoastal Waterway. The U.S. Coast Guard and local law enforcement located and detained a person of interest at a public boat ramp in Oak Island roughly 30 minutes later; that person is being questioned by authorities. People.com+1
- Multiple agencies — Southport Police, Oak Island Police, the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, the State Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Coast Guard — are assisting the investigation. Officials have not released the suspect’s name or motive as of the latest updates. https://www.wect.com+1
What is still unclear
- Victim identities and conditions: Officials have not released the names or full condition updates for the victims while families are being notified. AP News
- Motive: Authorities have not publicly confirmed a motive. Investigators are working to reconstruct the timeline and determine whether the shooting was targeted. WRAL.com
Reactions and local impact
Southport — a small coastal community that relies on tourism and restaurants — responded with shock and sorrow. The city issued shelter-in-place and safety warnings during the immediate response; businesses and visitors were affected as law enforcement secured the scene and gathered evidence. Local hospitals treated multiple injured victims, and regional media covered press briefings as investigators worked overnight. Facebook+1
Practical guidance for residents and visitors (what to do now)
If you are in the area right now
- Follow official instructions. If local authorities post shelter-in-place orders or evacuation guidance, follow them immediately. Monitor official channels (City of Southport social media, Southport Police, Oak Island Police, Brunswick County Sheriff). Facebook
- If you are in danger or see suspicious activity, call 911. Do not attempt to approach or apprehend anyone.
- Check roads and travel plans. Expect law-enforcement activity and limited access near the Southport Yacht Basin and adjacent marinas.
If you have loved ones who might have been there
- Contact them directly by phone (call or text) rather than relying on social media. If you can’t reach them, contact local hospitals and law enforcement non-emergency numbers for guidance. (For emergencies always dial 911.) ABC News
If you witnessed the incident
- Preserve evidence and safety. If you have video, photos, or observations, keep the original files and contact Southport Police or the investigative tip line. Do not post identities of potential victims while families are being notified. WRAL.com
For community leaders and businesses
- Prioritize employee and customer wellbeing. Offer counseling resources and time off for staff affected by the event.
- Coordinate with law enforcement for instructions on reopening, evidence preservation, and public messaging.
Why investigators detained a person of interest (brief legal note)
Media reports say the U.S. Coast Guard observed an individual matching the shooter’s description loading a boat in Oak Island and detained that person; local police have taken custody for questioning. Detention for questioning is an early step — investigators must corroborate evidence before charging someone. Expect a formal booking or charging update only after the prosecutor and investigators complete their review. https://www.wect.com+1
How to stay informed (trusted sources)
For accurate, up-to-date information, rely on:
- Local law enforcement & city channels (City of Southport official posts). Facebook
- Regional TV news outlets (WECT, WRAL) and AP/ABC/Reuters coverage for verified updates. https://www.wect.com+2AP News+2
- Official hospital statements for victim status (when released).
Avoid amplifying unverified social posts or speculation; these can complicate investigations and cause harm to victims’ families.
Support & resources
- If you are affected emotionally, consider calling a local crisis hotline or 988 (U.S. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) for immediate mental-health support.
- Community support: Local churches, community centers and nonprofit groups often open resources for victims and families after mass-casualty events — watch official City of Southport and county notices for volunteer, donation, and support information. portcitydaily.com
Conclusion — grief, facts, and the need for calm
This was a senseless, traumatic event for Southport and the coastal communities that gather at the Yacht Basin. Officials are working through the evidence; families and bystanders need time, accurate information, and support. We will update this page as authorities release more verified details.
🔑 Are you safe and accounted for? If not, follow local guidance now and share this article with friends/family who might need the update.
Light CTA
👉 For verified updates and local briefings as this investigation develops, subscribe to our News Alerts. If you live in the area and need resources, please check the City of Southport official page and local health providers for assistance. Facebook
Sources (selected)
AP, WECT, ABC News, People, WRAL, City of Southport official release. WRAL.com+4AP News+4https://www.wect.com+4
