Full Breakdown
Tragic Mass Shooting at Southport Waterfront Bar
10/2/2025, 1:59:50 PM
Overview of the Incident
On the night of September 27, 2025, a mass shooting occurred at the American Fish Company, a waterfront bar in Southport, North Carolina, resulting in the deaths of three patrons and injuries to five others. The shooter, identified as 40-year-old Nigel Max Edge, allegedly opened fire from a boat positioned near the restaurant's deck around 9:30 p.m. Authorities have described the attack as "highly premeditated."
Victims Identified
The victims of the shooting were identified as Solomon Banjo, 36, from Charlottesville, Virginia; Joy Rogers, 64, a resident of Southport; and Michael Durbin, 56, from Galena, Ohio. Joy Rogers, who had recently moved to Southport with her family to enjoy retirement, was remembered by her husband, Lennie Rogers, as a devoted wife and mother who "radiated joy, light, and kindness." A prayer vigil is scheduled for October 4 to honor the victims.
The Shooter's Background
Nigel Max Edge, a decorated Marine Corps veteran, has been charged with three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder, and multiple counts of assault with a deadly weapon. Edge, who served in Iraq and was awarded the Purple Heart, reportedly suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and has a history of mental health issues. During his first court appearance, prosecutors indicated that they may seek the death penalty.
Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitness Phillip Bowen recounted the chaos that ensued during the shooting, describing how he initially mistook the gunfire for fireworks. He expressed relief at escaping unharmed but lamented the loss of life. Bowen also noted that he had previously met Edge and felt that the system had failed both the shooter and the victims.
Community Response and Support
In the aftermath of the shooting, the Southport community has rallied to support the victims' families. Local organizations, including Southport Cares, are raising funds for medical and funeral expenses. The Living Word Bible Church has initiated T-shirt sales, with profits directed to the victims' families. Emotional support services have also been made available to residents grappling with the tragedy.
Official Statements
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein expressed his heartbreak over the incident, emphasizing the need for improved mental health care and community safety measures. He stated, “No one goes into a Saturday night thinking tragedy is possible,” highlighting the unexpected nature of such violence in a close-knit community like Southport.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the investigation is ongoing, details regarding the motive behind Edge's actions remain unclear. Authorities have indicated that the shooting was targeted, but further information is pending as the case develops.
What's Next
Edge is scheduled to appear in court again on October 13 for a probable cause hearing. As the community mourns, efforts to provide support for the victims' families continue, reflecting Southport's commitment to healing and solidarity in the face of tragedy.
