Who Is the Southport Shooting Suspect? What We Know About Nigel Max Edge

Authorities have named Nigel Max Edge as the suspect in a mass shooting on the evening of September 28, 2025, at a waterfront restaurant in Southport, North Carolina. Officials confirmed that three people were killed and several others wounded in the attack. Edge was taken into custody shortly after the incident and is now facing multiple felony charges.

Police say Edge has been charged with three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder, and several counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill. He is currently being held without bond while the investigation continues.

Details of the Southport Shooting and Suspect Background

Witnesses reported gunfire around 9:30 p.m. at the American Fish Company, a popular waterfront restaurant on Yacht Basin Drive. According to law enforcement statements, a lone shooter arrived by boat, opened fire on diners and staff, and then attempted to escape by water. Police and the U.S. Coast Guard quickly responded and intercepted a suspect boat near Oak Island, where Edge was arrested.

Authorities describe the attack as “highly premeditated” and believe the suspect acted alone. Investigators say an assault-style rifle was used during the shooting. Emergency crews transported multiple victims to area hospitals, while local officials secured the scene and launched a full investigation.

Records indicate that Edge is a military veteran who previously identified as suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Officials confirmed that he changed his name some years ago and was previously known as Sean DeBevoise. Public records show past legal disputes in North Carolina under that name. He is also the self-published author of a memoir titled *Headshot: Betrayal of a Nation (Truth Hurts)*, in which he alleged injuries and psychological trauma from his time in Iraq.

Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation

The mass shooting has shaken the small coastal community of Southport, known for its boating culture and busy waterfront dining scene. Several businesses in the Yacht Basin area have paused operations while investigators continue to collect evidence and interview witnesses.

The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office and Southport Police Department are leading the case, with federal support if needed. Authorities have urged residents and visitors not to speculate on unverified claims and to wait for official updates as the investigation unfolds.

Disclaimer: This report is based on confirmed law enforcement statements and reputable news reporting. Some early social media claims remain unverified and should not be treated as fact until authorities confirm further details.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)

Q1: How many people died or were injured?

Authorities confirmed three people were killed and several others were injured during the shooting.

Q2: When and where did the shooting happen?

The attack occurred around 9:30 p.m. on September 28, 2025, at the American Fish Company in Southport, North Carolina.

Q3: Who is the suspect?

Police identified the suspect as Nigel Max Edge, a military veteran previously known as Sean DeBevoise.

Q4: What charges is he facing?

Edge faces three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder, and multiple assault charges.

Q5: Is the investigation finished?

No. Authorities continue to gather evidence, review the suspect’s history, and interview witnesses.

References

Newsweek. (2025). “Who Is Nigel Edge? What We Know About North Carolina Mass Shooting Suspect.” Published September 28, 2025.

Associated Press. (2025). “Authorities respond to mass shooting in Southport, North Carolina.” Published September 28, 2025.

CNN. (2025). “Developing: Multiple casualties in North Carolina waterfront shooting.” Published September 28, 2025.