News Summary
A shooting at Avalon Fishing Pier in Kill Devil Hills has resulted in one death and a serious injury to a 15-year-old boy. The incident occurred in the parking lot, prompting a rapid response from law enforcement and emergency services. Witnesses reported multiple gunshots, leading to chaos among beachgoers. Authorities later arrested a suspect, recovering a weapon at the scene. Police continue to investigate, assuring the public there is no ongoing threat. This tragic event has shocked the community, which is known for its scenic beauty and beach activities.
KILL DEVIL HILLS, North Carolina — A shooting incident at Avalon Fishing Pier on Thursday, July 31, 2025, resulted in one fatality and one serious injury. The event unfolded in the pier’s parking lot around 2:37 p.m., prompting a swift response from law enforcement.
According to Kill Devil Hills Assistant Police Chief Dana Harris, emergency services arrived on the scene just four minutes after the initial reports, at approximately 2:41 p.m. First responders pronounced one victim dead at the location, while another victim, a 15-year-old boy from Pennsylvania, was critically injured. He suffered a gunshot wound to the thigh and was subsequently airlifted to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with multiple gunshots echoing through the air, causing panic among beachgoers and those on the pier. The rapid response from law enforcement and medical personnel helped manage the situation and provide necessary care to the victims. A significant presence of first responders remained at the pier for several hours, leading to the closure of beach access for the public.
Law enforcement agencies involved in the response included the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, Dare County EMS, and local police departments. As investigations commenced, witnesses provided critical information regarding the suspect’s appearance and vehicle, aiding officers in the search.
The suspect, who fled the scene immediately following the shooting, was apprehended later in the Southern Shores area through a traffic stop conducted by the Southern Shores Police Department. Following the arrest, a weapon was recovered from the suspect, though their identity has not yet been disclosed pending notification of next of kin for the victims.
Authorities have assured the public that there is currently no ongoing threat to the community, categorizing the incident as isolated. Police reports indicated that the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting is actively continuing, with further updates expected as details emerge.
The circumstances leading up to the shooting remain under review. As the investigation progresses, police are working diligently to piece together all relevant facts and will release additional information as necessary.
This tragic incident marks a somber day for the residents and visitors of Kill Devil Hills, a popular destination known for its scenic beauty and beachside activities. As community members come to terms with the events of July 31, local law enforcement is committed to ensuring safety and security in the area.
More updates on this incident will be provided by authorities as the investigation unfolds. The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement.
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Additional Resources
- WAVY: Police Investigate Shooting Near Avalon Fishing Pier
- Wikipedia: Kill Devil Hills
- WRAL: One Person Shot at Outer Banks Pier
- Google Search: Kill Devil Hills shooting
- The Coastland Times: One Dead, One Airlifted in Shooting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Kill Devil Hills
- Hindustan Times: Kill Devil Hills Shooting
- Google News: Kill Devil Hills shooting
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
