SOUTHPORT, N.C. — A tight-knit community was shaken late Saturday night after a mass shooting erupted at the Southport Yacht Basin, leaving at least two dead and 16 others injured, with authorities warning the number of victims may continue to rise.
Law enforcement identified the suspect as 17-year-old Davis Jones, who allegedly carried out the attack using rifles belonging to his father. Investigators are working to determine how the teen accessed the firearms and what may have motivated the tragic incident.
The shooting was first reported at 9:53 p.m. on September 27, 2025, when multiple 911 calls flooded in from terrified witnesses. Within minutes, local police, sheriff’s deputies, and emergency responders arrived, urging residents to shelter in place. Eyewitnesses described chaos as gunfire rang out across the marina. Families rushed into nearby businesses while boat owners sought cover below deck.
“It was like something you only see on the news—people screaming, running, ducking for cover. Nobody knew where the shots were coming from,” said one witness.
Paramedics worked through the night transporting victims to area hospitals. While several are reported in stable condition, at least two remain in critical condition. Jones was apprehended shortly after the shooting. Multiple firearms, believed to be from his father’s collection, were recovered at the scene.
Authorities, including the ATF, are reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and examining the suspect’s background. No clear motive has been confirmed.
City leaders expressed profound sorrow over the tragedy. “This is a heartbreaking and senseless tragedy. Our hearts are with the victims, their loved ones, and all of Southport as we begin to heal,” a local official said.
Schools in the area are increasing security, and grief counselors have been made available to residents. Police urge anyone with information to come forward.
