SOUTHPORT, N.C. — A night of terror unfolded in Southport on Saturday after gunfire erupted at the Southport Yacht Basin, leaving three people dead and three others injured. Authorities say the incident remains an active shooter situation as police continue to secure the area.
Shooter Reportedly Firing From a Boat
The Southport Police Department said they began receiving frantic 911 calls just before 10 p.m. on September 27, reporting shots fired near the marina. At 9:52 p.m., officials confirmed that the gunman appeared to be firing from a boat in the water and had not yet been taken into custody.
“This remains an extremely dangerous and evolving situation,” police warned in a late-night alert. “We urge all residents near the yacht basin to remain inside, lock doors, and report any suspicious activity immediately to 911.”
Victims and Injuries
Emergency responders confirmed that three people were killed in the gunfire and three more were rushed to local hospitals with injuries. Their names and conditions have not yet been released.
Southport Police and the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office are working to notify families and are withholding further details until next of kin have been reached.
Witness Accounts of Chaos
Residents living near the yacht basin described scenes of panic as gunfire rang out across the waterfront.
“I heard a series of rapid shots, maybe six or seven, then people screaming and running,” said one woman who lives a block away. “It was chaos. Police were on the scene within minutes, but you could still hear shouting and more shots after they arrived.”
Another witness reported seeing boats scrambling to get away from the marina as tactical teams swarmed the shoreline.
Heavy Police and Tactical Presence
By late Saturday night, a massive law enforcement response was visible around the yacht basin. Tactical units were deployed as officers attempted to contain the shooter on the water. Emergency crews remained on standby as additional patrols blocked off surrounding roads.
Residents in neighborhoods close to the basin have been told to shelter in place until further notice.
Community Shaken
The violence has rattled the Southport community, known for its coastal charm and small-town tranquility. Social media filled with urgent messages from residents checking on loved ones and offering prayers for the victims.
“This is heartbreaking. Southport is our safe haven, and to have lives lost like this is devastating,” one community member wrote.
Ongoing Investigation
Police say the investigation remains active and that more details about the shooter, victims, and motive will be released as soon as possible. For now, officials stress that the public should continue to avoid the Southport Yacht Basin until authorities declare the area secure.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Leave a Reply