Southport, N.C. — What began as a calm Saturday evening by the water turned into a nightmare when gunfire erupted at the Southport Yacht Basin, leaving six people dead and multiple others wounded in one of the deadliest attacks the coastal community has ever witnessed.
Chaos Erupts at the Marina
The violence began just before 10 p.m. when emergency dispatchers received frantic calls about shots being fired near the marina. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as gunfire echoed across the waterfront, sending residents and visitors running for cover.
“I saw people ducking behind cars, families holding their children and running, and boats trying to flee from the dock,” said one witness. “The sound of gunfire just kept going. It was terrifying.”
Victims and Injuries
Officials confirmed that six lives were lost in the attack, while numerous others were rushed to area hospitals with injuries. Some of the wounded remain in critical condition, and authorities cautioned that the death toll could rise.
The victims’ identities have not yet been released, pending notification of families. Local hospitals have been overwhelmed with emergency patients as medical staff work through the night to treat the injured.
Heavy Police and Tactical Response
Within minutes of the first 911 calls, police, sheriff’s deputies, and tactical teams swarmed the marina area. Roads leading to the yacht basin were quickly shut down, and residents were ordered to shelter in place as officers swept the area for threats.
Helicopters circled overhead while Coast Guard units patrolled the waters near the docks. Authorities worked to secure the area late into the night, urging the public to stay away until further notice.
Community in Shock
Southport, a city known for its peaceful harbor and close-knit community, has been left shaken and heartbroken. Vigils and prayer gatherings began forming overnight as residents struggled to process the scale of the tragedy.
“This is not who we are. Southport is family, and to lose six lives in such a violent way breaks us to our core,” said a local resident. “Our thoughts are with every victim and their loved ones.”
Ongoing Investigation
The shooting remains under active investigation as law enforcement agencies, including state and federal partners, work to piece together exactly how the attack unfolded.
Officials have promised to release more details in the coming hours, including information on the victims and the timeline of events.
⚠️ This remains a developing story. Updates will be provided as new details emerge.
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