Full Breakdown
Mass Shooting at Halloween Party in Robeson County Leaves Two Dead
10/26/2025, 6:35:05 AM
Incident Overview
A mass shooting occurred during a Halloween party in Robeson County, North Carolina, early Saturday morning, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to 11 others. The incident took place around 1 a.m. on Dixon Drive, just outside of Maxton, where approximately 300 people were in attendance. The Robeson County Sheriff's Office confirmed that 13 people were shot, with Jessie Locklear Jr., 49, and Nehemiah Locklear, 16, both from Lumberton, being the fatalities.
Details of the Event
According to Sheriff Burnis Wilkins, the shooting erupted following a confrontation between two groups at the party. Witnesses reported that multiple individuals were firing weapons without regard for the crowd. As law enforcement arrived at the scene shortly after receiving multiple emergency calls, over 150 attendees fled the area. Many of the injured were transported to local hospitals, with at least one victim suffering life-threatening injuries and requiring airlift to UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill.
Investigation and Response
The Robeson County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation, with assistance from various agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement (ALE). Sheriff Wilkins noted that while there are persons of interest, no arrests have been made, and cooperation from witnesses has been limited, a common challenge in such incidents. He emphasized the tragic nature of the event, particularly given the involvement of teenagers and the presence of alcohol and firearms.
Official Statements
Sheriff Wilkins described the shooting as a "senseless act of gun violence" and expressed concern about the mix of alcohol and firearms at the gathering. He stated, "What makes this even more disturbing is the involvement of teenagers, alcohol, and guns at a large house party." He also referenced a previous unsolved murder in the county that occurred under similar circumstances, highlighting the ongoing issue of community reluctance to provide information in such cases.
Criticism & Opposition
Community members and officials have raised concerns about the lack of regulation for large gatherings, as the party did not require a permit due to its size being below the local threshold. This absence of oversight may have contributed to the chaotic environment that allowed the shooting to occur.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the sheriff's office confirmed that 13 people were shot, reports on the exact number of critically injured individuals vary. Some sources indicate that several victims are in critical condition, while others suggest that most injuries are non-life-threatening. The details surrounding the confrontation that led to the shooting remain unclear, with ongoing investigations expected to clarify the circumstances.
What's Next
Authorities are urging anyone with information or video footage from the party to contact the Robeson County Sheriff's Office at 910-671-3100. The investigation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
