SOUTHPORT, N.C. — A local man with a military background has been charged with multiple counts of murder following a tragic shooting at a bar over the weekend, leaving three dead and several others injured. Authorities have identified the suspect as 40-year-old Nigel Edge, a combat veteran who reportedly struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder.
The shooting occurred around 9:30 p.m. Saturday at the American Fish Company, located near the Cape Fear River. Edge allegedly opened fire on the patrons while on a boat, later fleeing toward Oak Island before being apprehended by the Coast Guard. He now faces three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder, and five counts of assault with a deadly weapon.
During a Sunday news conference, local officials revealed that among the injured, at least one individual is in critical condition. District Attorney Jon David noted that many of the victims were likely vacationers and that their identities would be withheld until their families have been informed.
At Edge’s initial court appearance on Monday, prosecutors characterized the shooting as premeditated. Court documents suggest that Edge had exhibited troubling behavior in the days leading up to the shooting. Law enforcement officials stated he had been seen approaching the same dock the night before with his boat lights off, indicating possible intent to target the location.
Eyewitnesses from that evening described a chaotic scene as Edge reportedly shot eight people, with some victims suffering fatal gunshot wounds to the head. Afterward, Southport Police Chief Todd Coring indicated that the incident appeared to be a targeted attack orchestrated by Edge alone.
Gov. Josh Stein expressed his sorrow for the victims’ families during a press briefing, underscoring the strong sense of community in Southport. “In a place known for its tight-knit bonds, a special night by the water turned into a nightmare,” he remarked. Stein emphasized the urgent need for improved mental health resources to prevent such incidents, reflecting broader concerns over gun violence and community safety.
Edge’s military service background adds complexity to this case. A former Marine sergeant who served two tours in Iraq, he has been reported to have significant mental health challenges. He reportedly suffers from a traumatic brain injury, raising questions about the impact of his military experiences on his actions.
In addition to the current charges, Edge has a history of legal troubles, having filed multiple civil lawsuits in recent months. Various cases were dismissed, including allegations of medical malpractice and claims against local organizations. Furthermore, Edge had recently changed his name, adding another layer of intrigue to his history.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are examining whether existing laws could have prevented this incident. When asked about the potential for a “red flag” law, which allows for the temporary seizure of firearms from individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others, Gov. Stein stated that it remains uncertain if any warning signs were evident in Edge’s behavior.
The American Fish Company bar, now closed indefinitely, is left reeling from the aftermath of this tragic event. Edge is currently being held without bond at the Brunswick County Detention Center, with a probable cause hearing scheduled for October 13. Meanwhile, the district attorney’s office is considering whether to seek the death penalty as the community grapples with the impact of this horrific act.