SOUTHPORT, N.C. — A night of music and community at a popular waterfront venue turned tragic when gunfire erupted on Saturday, September 27, 2025, leaving three people dead and several others injured. The Southport Police Department confirmed the shooting occurred around 9:30 p.m. at the American Fish Company, located at 150 Yacht Basin Drive.
According to investigators, the attack began when a boat carrying a single gunman approached the venue and opened fire on patrons. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as people scrambled for safety amid the sudden gunfire. Emergency personnel responded within minutes, but despite their efforts, three victims succumbed to their injuries at the scene or shortly after.
Authorities have identified the deceased as Solomon Banjo, 36, of Charlottesville, Virginia; Joy Rogers, 64, of Southport, North Carolina; and Michael Durbin, 56, of Galena, Ohio. Officials requested privacy for the victims’ families as they grieve this devastating loss. Several additional individuals were injured, though their conditions have not been publicly released.
The suspect, identified as 41-year-old Nigel Max Edge, was taken into custody soon after the incident. Prosecutors have formally charged him with three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder, and five counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, inflicting serious injury. A probable cause hearing has been scheduled for October 13 at the Brunswick County Courthouse.
In a statement, the Southport Police Department expressed gratitude for the swift assistance of emergency responders and the outpouring of community support. “We are deeply saddened by this senseless act of violence,” the statement read. “Our hearts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected.” Officials also urged anyone who was at American Fish Company on September 26 or 27 and may have photos, videos, or information related to the incident to contact police at (910) 457-7911.
The investigation remains ongoing as local authorities, with assistance from state and federal agencies, work to piece together the events leading up to the shooting. As Southport mourns, residents and visitors alike are grappling with the shock of violence striking such a familiar and cherished gathering place. Officials pledged to release further updates as more details emerge in the case against Edge.