Former Marine Accused in Deadly Southport Waterfront Attack

On September 27th, 2025, a tragic mass shooting unfolded in Southport, North Carolina, leaving 3 people dead and at least 8 others injured. The violent incident occurred around 9:30 pm local time near a popular waterfront area along the shore, where a row of busy restaurants and bars are located.

According to witness accounts, the suspected gunman, identified as former U.S. Marine Sean William DeBevoise, allegedly used a small boat to approach the crowded area. He then opened fire on the unsuspecting crowd before speeding away. The attack sparked panic and confusion along the waterfront as emergency services rushed to the scene.

Authorities quickly launched a coordinated search operation, involving local police and U.S. Coast Guard units. About 30 minutes after the shooting, a Coast Guard member spotted a person matching the suspect's description dragging a boat from the water at a public ramp on Oak Island, near Southport. Officials took the man, later confirmed to be DeBevoise, into custody without incident.

Public records suggest DeBevoise, who has also legally changed his name to Nigel Max Edge, suffered severe traumatic brain injuries during his deployment to Iraq in 2006. These injuries reportedly led to diagnoses of schizophrenia and cognitive disorders, which may have contributed to the tragic events in Southport.

The community is now left to mourn the lives lost and care for the wounded as the investigation into the precise motives behind the shooting continues.