SOUTHPORT, N.C. — Authorities are investigating a horrific mass shooting late Saturday night at the American Fish Company restaurant in the Southport Yacht Basin, where a gunman opened fire from a boat on the Cape Fear River, killing three people and injuring at least nine others before fleeing toward Oak Island.
Law enforcement officials said emergency calls began pouring in shortly after the gunfire erupted. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as diners and staff scrambled for cover while responding officers and paramedics rushed to the scene. The victims’ names have not yet been publicly released pending family notification.
Suspect Connected to Former Marine
While police have not officially named a suspect, multiple reports have linked the shooting to Nigel Max Edge, formerly known as Sean William DeBevoise.
DeBevoise, who later adopted the name Nigel Edge, is a former U.S. Marine who enlisted after the September 11 attacks and served multiple tours in Afghanistan, Haiti, and Iraq. Records show he sustained serious injuries during his service, including wounds suffered in Iraq in 2006.
He briefly gained national attention in 2012 when country singer Kellie Pickler invited him as her guest to the CMT Music Awards, honoring him as a wounded veteran. DeBevoise was later described as the author of a memoir titled “Headshot: Betrayal of a Nation.”
History of Lawsuits and Conspiracy Allegations
Over the past decade, DeBevoise — under both his birth name and the name Nigel Edge — filed numerous lawsuits in federal court, many of which were dismissed for failure to state a claim.
His social media accounts have been filled with controversial posts alleging government conspiracies. He claimed that he was kidnapped, given a false identity, and placed with a “fake family,” alleging repeated assassination attempts, poisoning, and systemic corruption by the military, CIA, and North Carolina law enforcement.
DeBevoise also accused high-profile figures — including Jeffrey Epstein, government officials, and members of the LGBTQ community — of involvement in what he described as human trafficking schemes. He claimed both he and his dog were poisoned as part of targeted attempts on his life.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities have not confirmed DeBevoise as the shooter and have not released an official motive. Federal, state, and local agencies are assisting in the investigation, which spans multiple jurisdictions given the suspect’s escape by water.
The Harris County medical examiner is expected to release autopsies on the deceased victims. Police are urging anyone with video, photos, or tips about the shooting to come forward immediately.
Officials are also cautioning the public to avoid spreading speculation online as the investigation develops. “We understand the community’s concern, but it’s important to let investigators do their work,” a Southport Police spokesperson said Sunday.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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