Southport, North Carolina, has been shaken by a tragic mass shooting that left three dead and several others injured. This incident occurred off the shoreline at the American Fish Company, where a gunman opened fire from his boat. Southport Police Chief Todd Coring, who has deep familial roots in the area, described the event as the darkest night of his career.
Details of the Incident
On that fateful day, Chief Coring received the alarming call about the shooting. Initial thoughts were of a simple altercation; however, the panic in his officers’ voices painted a much graver picture. As he arrived at the scene, he encountered overwhelming chaos.
- Time of incident: Early morning hours on an unspecified date.
- Location: American Fish Company, a unique waterfront venue.
- Casualties: Three fatalities and multiple injuries.
Emergency Response
Chief Coring witnessed the swift action of his officers as they attempted to save lives, performing CPR and applying pressure to gunshot wounds. They faced fears about whether the shooter was still active.
After approximately 30 minutes, the chief learned that the suspect, identified as Nigel Edge, had been apprehended. This news allowed him to momentarily exhale with a sense of hope.
Impact on the Community
This mass shooting has sparked widespread discussions about community safety and mental health. The suspected shooter, a veteran with a history of mental health issues, had prior interactions with law enforcement, raising questions about preventive measures.
- Suspect: Nigel Edge, an Iraq War veteran with a traumatic brain injury.
- Legal history: Over a dozen lawsuits filed against law enforcement in 2025.
Many community members have criticized law enforcement for not acting decisively to protect residents from Edge before the tragedy unfolded. Chief Coring highlighted the complexities involved in balancing community safety and individual rights.
Conversations on Gun Laws
The Southport shooting has ignited conversations about the necessity of red flag laws in North Carolina. These laws would allow authorities to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a threat to themselves or others.
Chief Coring expressed the need for ongoing discussions about community safety issues and the role of law enforcement. “I want to be part of conversations that can help us navigate these challenges,” he stated.
Community Resilience
In the aftermath of this traumatic event, Chief Coring has emphasized the importance of community support. Many locals have rallied around law enforcement, expressing gratitude in ways that have profoundly impacted him.
As he reflects on this dark chapter, Chief Coring hopes the experience can serve as a learning opportunity for other law enforcement agencies. “If we can rise up and create something positive from this tragedy, it would be a stepping stone towards healing,” he said.
The resilience and strength of Southport will be crucial as the community navigates the path to recovery and seeks to prevent such events in the future.
