SOUTHPORT, N.C. — A Saturday night out turned into tragedy at the Southport Yacht Basin after a gunman opened fire from a boat anchored along the Cape Fear River, killing three people and wounding at least nine more before attempting to flee toward Oak Island.
Authorities have since detained a suspect identified in multiple reports as Nigel Max Edge, formerly known as Sean William DeBevoise. The U.S. Coast Guard intercepted a vessel matching witness descriptions near the NE 55th Street boat ramp in Oak Island, where a man believed to be the shooter was taken into custody for questioning.
A Former Marine With a Troubled Past
Sean William DeBevoise—who later adopted the name Nigel Edge—served in the U.S. Marine Corps following the September 11th attacks. He completed multiple deployments, including tours in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Haiti. His military record includes claims of serious injuries, including being struck by gunfire during a combat operation in Iraq in 2005.
In 2020, under the name Nigel Edge, he self-published a memoir titled “Headshot: Betrayal of a Nation (Truth Hurts)”. In the book, DeBevoise details his upbringing, military service, and a series of grievances against the U.S. government and military, which he accused of betrayal. He claimed he survived being shot multiple times—including once in the head—in what he alleged was a friendly-fire incident, leaving him with lifelong physical and psychological scars.
History of Lawsuits and Public Allegations
Beyond his memoir, DeBevoise became known for a string of lawsuits filed in federal court. Records show he represented himself in numerous cases, many of which were dismissed for lack of merit. His legal claims often included accusations of government corruption, medical neglect, and even involvement in human trafficking schemes.
On social media, he regularly posted allegations that he was the target of a government conspiracy. His writings referenced poisoning attempts, kidnapping, and surveillance, while also accusing well-known individuals—including country singer Kellie Pickler, with whom he once attended the 2012 CMT Awards—of attempts on his life. In later years, DeBevoise even sued Pickler, alleging she had tried to kill him.
Witness Accounts of the Shooting
According to witnesses, a boat was spotted idling near the American Fish Company restaurant for nearly an hour before the shooting began around 9:30 p.m. Diners and staff were thrown into chaos when gunfire erupted, striking patrons both inside and outside the waterfront establishment.
Three victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while at least nine others were rushed to local hospitals with varying injuries. Officials have not yet released the names of those killed as families are being notified.
Investigation Ongoing
The Southport Police Department, Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, and U.S. Coast Guard are working jointly on the investigation. Authorities confirmed that a suspect is in custody but emphasized that the investigation is active, and formal charges have not yet been announced.
“This was a senseless act of violence that has shaken our community to its core,” said Southport Public Information Officer ChyAnn Ketchum. “We will continue to work tirelessly to uncover the full truth of what happened here tonight.”
As Southport grieves the devastating loss of life, the community awaits answers—and justice—in a case that has already drawn national attention due to the suspect’s unusual and public past.
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