The small coastal town of Southport, North Carolina, was shaken on the evening of September 27, 2025, when a gunman opened fire on patrons gathered at the American Fish Company, a popular waterfront bar along the Intracoastal Waterway. The attack, which began shortly after 9:30 p.m., left three people dead and eight others injured. Authorities said the shooter opened fire from the waterway side of the venue, sending panic through the crowd of customers who had gathered for a late-night outing.
Witnesses described a sudden burst of gunfire from the riverbank direction, with some initially mistaking the sounds for fireworks before realizing the gravity of the situation. Emergency crews rushed to the scene, tending t652o the wounded and securing the area as frightened patrons sought cover. Local hospitals reported that several of the injured remained in critical condition the following morning, though some had been stabilized after emergency surgery.
The suspect, who has not yet been publicly identified by police pending formal charges, was quickly apprehended. Authorities say the gunman attempted to flee by boat and was intercepted near Oak Island after the U.S. Coast Guard observed suspicious activity at a boat ramp. Southport police confirmed that the individual is now in custody and faces multiple charges, including three counts of first-degree murder and several counts of assault with a deadly weapon. Officials emphasized that the investigation remains active and are working in coordination with state law enforcement and federal agencies to determine the motive behind the shooting.
Local leaders expressed shock and sorrow, characterizing the attack as unprecedented in a community better known for its small-town charm and tourism-driven economy. Southport, with its quiet streets, historic waterfront, and reputation as a safe vacation spot, is unaccustomed to large-scale acts of violence. Residents gathered the following morning in small vigils, leaving flowers and messages of condolence outside the bar and nearby businesses. For many, the event underscored how even close-knit communities are not immune to sudden acts of violence.
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Business owners in the area echoed the sense of disbelief. The American Fish Company, a local landmark known for live music and its scenic view of the Intracoastal Waterway, has long been a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. “This is a place where people come to relax, to feel safe, and to enjoy themselves,” one resident said. “No one ever thought something like this could happen here.”
Officials noted that additional security measures will be implemented along the waterfront in the immediate aftermath of the incident, especially with fall festivals and seasonal events scheduled in the coming weeks. Local police reassured residents that they believe the attack was an isolated act and that there is no ongoing threat to the community. Nevertheless, the event has left many shaken and questioning the sense of safety they once took for granted.
The broader investigation is expected to examine how the suspect gained access to firearms and whether there were warning signs prior to the attack. Authorities are also reviewing security protocols along the busy waterway, where boats frequently pass near commercial and recreational areas. While details remain limited, officials stressed their commitment to providing transparency as more information becomes available.
Governor Roy Cooper issued a statement offering condolences to the victims’ families and pledging state support for Southport in the aftermath of the tragedy. “This act of violence has deeply hurt a community known for its warmth and hospitality,” Cooper said. “We will work closely with local and federal partners to ensure justice is served and to provide every resource necessary to help Southport heal.”
For the people of Southport and neighboring Oak Island, the attack has left scars that will take time to mend. As investigators continue their work, the community is rallying together to support those affected, with local churches and civic groups organizing donation drives and counseling services for survivors and their families. What was once considered a quiet stretch of North Carolina’s coast now finds itself at the center of a tragedy that has shaken confidence but also sparked resilience.