Southport NC shooting suspect Nigel Max Edge, also known as Sean William DeBevoise, has been linked to the deadly attack that killed three and injured eight. Here’s everything we know about the suspect’s background, arrest, and investigation.
Southport NC Shooting Suspect: Who Is Nigel Max Edge?
The tragic events in Southport, North Carolina, have shocked the nation. On Saturday night, a gunman opened fire near a busy waterfront lined with restaurants and bars, killing three people and injuring at least eight others. Authorities have taken a man into custody, and social media quickly identified him as Nigel Max Edge, also known as Sean William DeBevoise, a former Marine Corps veteran.
The phrase Southport NC shooting suspect has been trending across news outlets and social platforms as more details about Edge’s background, mental health, and alleged motives surface.
Background of the Southport NC Shooting Suspect
According to reports, the Southport NC shooting suspect is a 40-year-old former Marine veteran who legally changed his name from Sean William DeBevoise to Nigel Max Edge.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sean William DeBevoise (Nigel Max Edge) |
| Age | ~40 years old |
| Residence | Oak Island, North Carolina |
| Military Service | Former US Marine Corps |
| Injuries | Traumatic brain injury from Iraq War |
| Mental Health Diagnoses | Schizophrenia, cognitive disorders |
| Known Activities | Fisherman, author, frequent lawsuits |
DeBevoise served in the Marines, deployed to Iraq in 2006, and reportedly suffered multiple gunshot wounds, including one to the head. After returning home, he struggled with both physical and psychological trauma.
The Night of the Shooting
Witnesses say the Southport NC shooting suspect arrived by boat around 9:30 p.m., paused along the waterfront, and opened fire on the crowd before speeding away.
- Location: Popular row of bars and eateries in Southport, NC
- Fatalities: 3
- Injured: At least 8
- Escape: Suspect fled by small boat
- Capture: Spotted by the U.S. Coast Guard 30 minutes later on Oak Island
Authorities confirmed that the suspect was detained near a public boat ramp on Oak Island, about 30 miles south of Wilmington.
Mental Health and Military Struggles
The Southport NC shooting suspect has a complicated history. After his injuries in Iraq, DeBevoise was diagnosed with schizophrenia and cognitive disorders. He often claimed he was betrayed by the military, and his writings and lawsuits revealed deep mistrust of institutions.
- He self-published a book on Amazon titled “Headshot – Betrayal of a Nation (Truth Hurts)”.
- Filed unusual lawsuits alleging government conspiracies.
- Posted online about being pursued by a so-called “white supremacist LGBTQ pedophile ring.”
These troubling beliefs paint a picture of a man struggling to reconcile his past experiences with his present life.
The GoFundMe Campaign and Civilian Life
Interestingly, the Southport NC shooting suspect had previously raised money through a GoFundMe campaign, collecting over $18,000 to buy a fishing boat. He presented himself as a fisherman trying to rebuild his life.
In his campaign video, he described being a high school junior during 9/11, which inspired him to enlist in the Marines. Despite severe injuries, he tried to create a new livelihood but continued to show signs of deep emotional turmoil.
Public and Social Media Reaction
Social media users quickly identified the Southport NC shooting suspect after photos surfaced online. Many locals expressed shock, saying he was known in the Oak Island community as a fisherman but also had a reputation for filing lawsuits and making unusual claims.
| Platform | Reaction to Suspect |
|---|---|
| Twitter/X | Outrage over the tragedy and questions about veteran mental health |
| Facebook Groups | Locals sharing photos, confirming identity |
| Reddit Threads | Discussions of his book, lawsuits, and past |
The identification through social media has raised concerns about the balance between transparency and misinformation during active investigations.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have not yet confirmed the motive behind the shooting. Agencies involved include:
- Southport Police Department
- North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI)
- U.S. Coast Guard
The Southport NC shooting suspect is currently being held for questioning as investigators piece together what led to the attack.
Impact on the Community
Southport, a historic port town known for its calm atmosphere and tourism, is now dealing with trauma and grief. The attack shattered a sense of safety and has sparked conversations about:
- Gun violence in small towns
- Veterans’ access to mental health care
- Security around public waterfront events
Local businesses have temporarily closed, and memorials are being planned for the victims.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is the Southport NC shooting suspect?
The Southport NC shooting suspect is identified as Sean William DeBevoise, also known as Nigel Max Edge, a 40-year-old Marine veteran.
2. How many people were killed in the Southport shooting?
Three people were killed, and at least eight others were injured.
3. Where was the suspect arrested?
The suspect was arrested at a boat ramp on Oak Island after being spotted by the Coast Guard.
4. Did the suspect have a military background?
Yes, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps and was injured in Iraq, suffering traumatic brain injuries.
5. What is known about the suspect’s personal life?
He lived in Oak Island, NC, raised funds for a fishing business, published a book on Amazon, and was known for filing unusual lawsuits.
Conclusion
The story of the Southport NC shooting suspect is tragic and complex. From a Marine veteran who once served his country to a man now accused of a deadly mass shooting, his journey raises difficult questions about veteran care, mental health, and community safety.
As investigators continue to uncover details, one fact remains clear: the Southport community will be forever changed by this devastating event.