SOUTHPORT, N.C. — A tragic mass shooting at a waterfront bar has left three people dead and several others injured, sending shockwaves through the small coastal community. The shooting took place at the American Fish Company last Saturday night, where a gathering meant for relaxation was shattered by violence.
Authorities have identified the victims as Joy Rogers, 64, a resident of Southport; Solomon Banjo, 36, from Charlottesville, Virginia; and Michael Durbin, 56, of Galena, Ohio. Five additional individuals sustained injuries during the incident, and all were reported to be hospitalized, according to city officials.
The suspect in the shooting, Nigel Edge, a 40-year-old Marine veteran, is facing serious charges including three counts of first-degree murder and multiple counts of attempted murder and weapon-related offenses. Edge is currently being held at the Brunswick County jail without bond, with a scheduled court appearance on October 13.
Investigators state that Edge piloted a boat close to shore, firing an AR-style rifle with a silencer at a crowd of patrons. Southport Police Chief Todd Coring characterized the event as a “highly premeditated” attack. Edge was apprehended approximately 30 minutes post-shooting after being observed by a U.S. Coast Guard crew as he exited the water with his vessel.
The investigation remains open as law enforcement seeks further information from individuals who were present at the bar the night of the shooting. During a preliminary court hearing, Edge’s mental health was scrutinized, with prosecutors highlighting his significant struggles following a traumatic brain injury due to combat. Edge, who changed his name from Sean DeBevoise in 2023, reportedly struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder.
In light of the serious charges, District Attorney Jon David indicated that his office would explore the possibility of pursuing the death penalty in this case. The community is mourning the loss of Rogers, whose family shared that her Christian faith greatly influenced her life. They described her as someone who “radiated joy, light, and kindness” in the short time she had lived in Southport, aiming for a peaceful retirement after relocating from California.
The night was reportedly filled with music and laughter until chaos ensued. Survivors recalled an atmosphere of enjoyment swiftly replaced by panic and fear as gunfire erupted. “Everyone was dancing, having a great time,” said one bar patron, lamenting how quickly the joyful evening turned into a nightmare.
Another witness recounted mistaking the initial sounds of gunfire for fireworks, only to find themselves amidst screams and chaos. Phillip Bowen, who had previously met Edge and expressed concern for his mental well-being, emphasized the importance of community support for veterans, particularly those like Edge who have endured trauma.
Records indicate that Edge served in the military from 2003 to 2009, achieving the rank of sergeant. His prior service included harrowing experiences, including being shot multiple times during a military operation in Iraq. As the investigation continues and discussions about potential legal consequences unfold, the Southport community grapples with the aftermath of this unsettling event.