A shooting from a boat at the Southport Yacht Basin left three people dead and eight injured. Police confirmed a person of interest tied to the boat is being questioned.

SOUTHPORT, NC (2-minute read) — A deadly shooting at the Southport Yacht Basin left three people dead and eight others injured late Saturday night. Authorities confirmed the suspected shooter was on a boat when the gunfire erupted, transforming the waterfront into a scene of panic.

Sh00ter pulled up in a boat to a restaurant at the Southport Yacht Basin and fired into the crowd.

Then was able to get away on the boat.

This is according to the City Manager, Noah Saldo. pic.twitter.com/1CRfwBg0RI

— Southern FFA Family (@FFAFamily) September 28, 2025

Gunfire from a Boat

City officials reported that shots rang out around 10 p.m. on September 27. Witnesses said the gunfire appeared to come from a boat docked at the marina, an area often bustling with locals and visitors enjoying the coastal atmosphere. Emergency alerts went out shortly after the first calls, urging people nearby to seek safety.

Three victims died at the scene, while eight others were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Their conditions remain undisclosed.

Suspect in Custody

A spokesperson for the City of Southport confirmed that a person of interest linked to the boat is now being questioned. Police have not released the suspect’s name or details about a possible motive, and investigators are still piecing together what led to the tragedy.

This is a developing story.