Deadly Shooting at North Carolina Restaurant Identified as Targeted Attack Linked to Anti-LGBTQ Allegations

Deadly Shooting at North Carolina Restaurant Identified as Targeted Attack Linked to Anti-LGBTQ Allegations

A weekend shooting incident at a waterfront restaurant in Southport, North Carolina, has left three individuals dead and five others injured. Authorities have described the attack as “highly premeditated” and not a random act of violence.

The shooting occurred at approximately 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 27, at the American Fish Company, a popular eatery and bar. Known for its picturesque waterfront views, the restaurant also serves as a filming location for the 2013 romantic thriller “Safe Haven,” based on a novel by Nicholas Sparks.

Details of the Attack

Suspect Nigel Max Edge, a 40-year-old resident of Oak Island and military veteran, allegedly fired on patrons from a white center-console boat anchored just off the restaurant’s deck. At the time, live music entertained guests, creating an atmosphere of relaxation that quickly shifted to chaos as patrons fled in terror.

Police reported that people on the deck were struck by bullets, prompting a frantic scramble for safety. Edge reportedly fled the scene immediately after opening fire.

During a briefing following the incident, Police Chief Todd Coring emphasized that the shooting was not a random occurrence. He stated, “This was not random. It was highly premeditated.”

Suspect’s Background and Court Proceedings

Edge attended his initial court hearing via video from the nearby sheriff’s office jail. Authorities have classified him as both a potential flight risk and a danger to the community, leading to a bond denial. He is due back in court on October 13 for a probable cause hearing and has requested representation by a public defender.

During the court session, prosecutors revealed that Edge utilized a .300 Blackout Sig Sauer rifle with a suppressor and scope in the shooting. Additionally, he possessed a .380 handgun at the time of his arrest. Some ammunition used in the rifle was specially tipped for maximum impact, raising the severity of the incident.

Swift Action by Law Enforcement

Two deputies from the sheriff’s department quickly responded to the shooting on a boat and located Edge as he attempted to retrieve his boat trailer. They apprehended him while he was backing the trailer to pull out his vessel.

As the investigation progressed, officials suggested that the attack might have been initially planned for the previous night. Witnesses reported seeing Edge near the restaurant with boat lights turned off before he disappeared when approached.

Examining Mental Health Claims

During the press conference, Chief Coring mentioned that Edge claims to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD, stating that he self-identifies as a combat veteran. Fox News Digital has reached out to the Department of Defense to verify his claims.

“We understand this suspect identifies as a combat veteran and claims to have been injured in the line of duty, suffering from PTSD,” Coring added.

Legal Troubles and Disturbing Allegations

Notably, Edge was involved in a federal lawsuit dismissed earlier this year. In that case, he made unusual claims, alleging a hate crime against him based on his sexual identity and asserting that he was part of an illegal pedophile sex ring orchestrated by his parents, whom he described as “LGBTQ White Supremacist Pedophiles.”

This federal lawsuit was dismissed by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina on March 12, 2025. Judge Louise W. Flanagan ruled that Edge’s claims lacked any legal foundation and consisted primarily of outrageous accusations.

Community Impact and Victim Identification

District Attorney Jon David commented on the shooting’s implications for the community, noting that many victims were not local residents but vacationers. He remarked, “Sadly, a lot of the victims in this case appear to be not members of our community, but people who are here on vacation.”

The court filings reveal the initials of five victims—JS, WP, JB, LB, and TL—associated with attempted first-degree murder and assault with a deadly weapon counts. Furthermore, three individuals lost their lives during the attack, although their identities have not yet been officially released.

Charges and Consequences

Edge faces serious charges, including three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder, and five counts of assault with a deadly weapon. Depending on the proceedings, he could face additional charges, potentially including the death penalty.

A Community in Mourning

In a statement, the American Fish Company announced its closure, along with the neighboring Frying Pan restaurant, indefinitely. They expressed heartfelt condolences, saying, “Our hearts are broken, and our prayers are with the victims, their families, and everyone affected by this tragedy. God bless Southport.”

Investigators from the Southport Police Department, in coordination with Oak Island Police, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, and the Coast Guard, continue to probe the incident. Ongoing forensic testing includes ballistics examinations and autopsies as the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event.